HS

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