Are Kinesiology Services Right for You? The Who, When, and Why of Professional Kinesiology
- Austen Zentner
- Jun 1
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 10
This blog will briefly discuss who should see a kinesiologist, when they should book an appointment, and why they might pursue kin treatment. You've probably already seen our article discussing What is clinical kinesiology?, and this article will go a bit deeper into applying kinesiology services in someone's day-to-day life.
Who should see a kinesiologist?
Your body was made to move, and kinesiologists are professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to find and teach movement to fit your life. Everyone could benefit from kin services - whether you are in excellent physical condition like a professional athlete or if you are experiencing chronic disease like COPD or arthritis, working with a kinesiologist can help to improve health, build performance, regain ability, or live a pain-free life.
Populations who should see a kin
Some of the more common applications of kinesiology involve vulnerable or high-risk populations, and especially those experiencing or at risk of contracting hypokinetic diseases, or diseases caused by inactivity. Some of the most common at-risk groups include:
Older adults
Sedentary individuals
Type 2 diabetics
People with physical or cognitive disabilities
People with poor mental health
Workers in demanding industries (like construction or emergency services)
Seniors with a risk of falling
Those with poor posture or scoliosis
Those with neurological conditions (like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's)
Recreational or professional athletes
and more.
Working with a kinesiologist will build strength, increase mobility, improve mental health, reduce blood pressure, and develop general fitness. In turn, this promotes healthy living and improves health markers.
When should you see a kinesiologist?
Many folks will see a kin only when they are referred to one. Most commonly, this comes after an injury or a health scare. Here in Saskatchewan, many kinesiology clients are referred to kinesiology through SGI or Workers' Compensation claims, but general practitioners and medical professionals are more commonly recommending kinesiology and prescribing movement, especially for the at-risk groups listed above.
Since everyone can benefit from moving their body, and because kins are well versed in the science and application of movement for health, kinesiology should be among the first choices for anyone looking to improve their health and fitness at any stage of life. Even if there is no specific reason to invest in kinesiology, exercise and movement can improve both your quality and quantity of life.
In fact, a recent article in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that 150 minutes of exercise a week - that's three one-hour movement sessions - can reduce all-cause mortality by over 30%, in addition to its application as a treatment for over 30 chronic conditions. This 30/30 rule is a clear example of how kinesiologists play an important role in health.
Why should you see a kinesiologist?
If you struggle to get 150 minutes of physical activity a week, if you fall into a high-risk population group, if you struggle to find the motivation to get moving, or if you're just excited about getting healthier - kinesiology services are for you! Maybe you aren't sure where to start with exercise and fitness, or maybe you find the gym intimidating - and that's okay! Kinesiologists are here to help.
There's an unending list of reasons to get active, and kins are here to help with all of them. Some great reasons to hire a kinesiologist include:
Improving health and fitness
Gaining strength
Preventing falls
Finding motivation
Improving balance
Building muscle
Reducing blood pressure
Treating chronic disease
Improving immune system function
Extending your life!
Regardless of your current level of activity, injury status or stage of life, getting 150 minutes of physical activity a week is good for you, and it meets the ParticipACTION 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for health.
Recap: What's the point of hiring a kinesiologist?
There are so many reasons to hire a kin, but they really come down to improving health, quality of life, and longevity. Whether you're prescribed kinesiology by an allied healthcare provider or you seek out kin services independently, the exercise and movement prescriptions offered by a kinesiologist will improve your health and provide benefits across the lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see a kinesiologist?
Nope! While a referral from insurance or Workers' Compensation is often the first step in getting kin services covered, you can book with a kin at any time. You can find a kin near you using this Canada-wide registry.
Are kinesiology services covered by insurance?
This will depend on your specific insurance coverage. Some healthcare benefits providers offer coverage for kinesiology, and flexible healthcare spending accounts can often be applied to kin services, but it's best to contact your provider for confirmation.
How can I find a qualified kinesiologist?
The best way to find a kin and ensure they are well-educated and properly insured is by using our find a kin tool.
How much does kinesiology cost?
Kin services range in price depending on the clinic, gym, or practitioner. In-gym sessions may range from as low as $50 to over $120 per session, depending on the local, provider, and specialization of the treatment needed.
Do kinesiologists work with doctors or other healthcare providers?
Yes! Kins often work alongside physiotherapists, occupational therapists, doctors, nurses or nurse practitioners, and other medical professionals as part of a care team.
How long does a kinesiology session normally last?
This depends on the patient and the service, but an appointment normally lasts between 30 and 90 minutes.
What education do kinesiologists have?
Under the Kinesiology Association of Saskatchewan and Canadian Kinesiology Alliance, all kins must have a minimum of a four-year kinesiology (or equivalent) university degree that covers the CKA's 54 Major Competencies.
Ready to jump in to kin?!
Check out our Find a Kinesiologist tool today to find a university-educated, insured, Professional Kinesiologist near you. Every kin in our registry is backed by the Canadian Kinesiology Alliance's stringent education and competency requirements, offering a guarantee that your kin will know how to keep you safe as you build toward your goals.