Intro_to_Kinesiology

Introduction to Kinesiology

• Instructor: Abigail Gray

• Course: PUBH3001

• Institution: School of Public Health, University of Minnesota

Objectives

• Define key concepts related to Kinesiology:

  • Kinesiology

  • Physical Activity

  • Exercise

  • Quality of Life

• Understand the different branches of Kinesiology.

• Explore various professions within the field of Kinesiology.

• Discuss current research trends in Kinesiology.

Definitions

Kinesiology

• The scientific study of human movement.

Physical Activity (PA)

• Encompasses all bodily movements, including leisure activities.

Exercise

• A subset of PA that requires physical effort, aimed at sustaining or improving health and fitness.

Quality of Life (QoL)

• A comprehensive concept evaluating an individual’s or population’s overall well-being through both positive and negative factors.

Branches of Kinesiology

Biomechanics

• Focuses on the mechanical laws as they relate to human movement, including structure, function, and movement studies.

Anatomy

• Studies the internal structures of living organisms, including bodily structures relevant to Kinesiology.

Physiology

• Investigates the mechanisms and functions of the living body, emphasizing bodily responses to exercise and activity.

Values of Kinesiology

• The field encourages empowering individuals and communities to engage in physical activity and promote health.

Kinesiology Professions

• Personal Trainer

• Group Fitness Instructor

• Gym Management

• Physical Therapist

• Occupational Therapist

• Exercise and Sports Psychology

• Athletic Trainer

• Sports Medicine

• Additional professions exist in the field.

Current Research Example

Group Static Cycling Study

• Focus: The effects of Group Static Cycling on fear of falling (FoF) and quality of life in individuals with Parkinson's Disease.

• Parkinson’s Disease Overview:

  • Affects 1% of the U.S. population over 60.

  • Symptoms include motor and nonmotor factors affecting QoL.

Exercise and Parkinson’s Disease (PD)

• Considerations:

  • Accelerated aging impact on the population.

  • Recommendations from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

  • Benefits:

    • Maintain mobility and independence.

    • Promote neuroplasticity.

    • Offer social benefits.

References

• Augustyn, A. (n.d.). Human body. Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/science/human-body

• Competitive Edge. (2021). What are biomechanics? Retrieved from https://compedgept.com/blog/what-are-biomechanics/

• Gray, A. (2024). Group versus independent walking groups and their effects on fear of falling and quality of life for Parkinson’s Disease patients. [Unpublished manuscript].

• Newman, T. (2017, October). Introduction to physiology: History, Biological Systems, and Branches. Medical News Today. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248791