Foundations in Kinesiology Study Notes

Foundations and Pathways of Kinesiology

Introduction to Kinesiology

  • Course Information: KIN 2508 - Foundations in Kinesiology
  • Instructor: Melissa Thompson, PhD, ATC
  • Institution: LSU, School of Kinesiology

Learning Objectives

  1. Define Kinesiology.
  2. Identify and define the three strata into which kinesiology is organized:
    • a) Identify the various forms of movement.
    • b) Describe the subdisciplines of kinesiology.
    • c) Identify how kinesiology contributes to professional training and career readiness.

What is Kinesiology

  • Definition: The systematic study of human movement and its implications.
  • Historical Context:
    • Old History: Kinesiology has roots that trace back considerably over the years.
    • New Popularity: The field has seen increased interest and establishment notably after 1990.
  • Future Projections: Based on fall 2025 enrollment data, kinesiology continues to grow as a field.
  • Position Statement: Kinesiology is recognized for its diverse and holistic approach to studying human movement.

Key Definitions in Kinesiology

  • Human Movement:

    • Definition: Refers to all forms of mobility in humans.
    • Examples: Walking, running, swimming, dancing.

  • Physical Activity: Engaging in bodily movements produced by skeletal muscles that require energy expenditure.

    • Key Difference: Physical activity is structured and contributes to health.
    • Examples: Exercise, sports, recreational activities.

  • Structured Movement:

    • Definition: Movement that is intentionally designed to build attributes such as strength, endurance, flexibility, agility, etc.
    • Examples: Weightlifting, aerobics classes, yoga sessions.

Strata of Kinesiology

Kinesiology is divided into three primary strata:

  1. Core Scientific Domains:

    • This includes foundational knowledge and research in kinesiology.
    • Subdisciplines:
      • Biomechanics: The application of physics to human movement.
      • Exercise Physiology: Examines the body's response to human movement.
      • History of Sport and Dance: Investigates the evolution of sport and its cultural implications.
      • Neurophysiology of Performance: Focuses on brain function, motor control, and physiological homeostasis during physical activity.
      • Philosophy of Sport: Explores the underlying knowledge and ethical considerations in sports.
      • Psychology of Performance: Studies developmental, learning, self-regulation, and performance aspects in athletes.
      • Sociology of Sport: Looks at the connections between sport and society.
      • Sport Medicine: Deals with the medical care and prevention of injuries in athletes.

  2. Forms of Movement:

    • Reflects the various socio-cultural aspects influencing movement practices based on ethnicity and geography.
    • Examples of Common Socio-Culturally Based Forms of Movement:
      • Aquatics: Swimming and related activities.
      • Combatives: Includes boxing, fencing, martial arts, and shooting sports.
      • Equestrian Activities: Horseback riding and related competitions.
      • Individual Sports: Such as racket sports and handball.
      • Running: Encompasses marathon, triathlon, and similar endurance events.
      • Team Sports: Includes basketball, baseball, football, softball, and soccer.
      • Vertigo Sports: Activities like diving and gymnastics.
      • Winter Sports: Such as skiing and skating.

  3. Professional Applications:

    • Focuses on the practical aspect of kinesiology in various settings.
    • Includes:
      • Building and Restoring Human Movement: Rehabilitation and recovery techniques.
      • Enhancement of Performance: Training methods designed to improve athletic abilities.
      • Teaching/Coaching Others: Educating individuals on effective movement practices.
      • Applying Scientific Research: Utilizing findings from scientific studies in real-world applications.
      • Management and Administration: Overseeing sports and physical activity programs.
      • Examples: Career paths in physical therapy, sports management, coaching, and exercise science.

Professional Organizations

  • American Kinesiology Association:
    • A professional organization dedicated to promoting and enhancing kinesiology as a unified field of study and advancing its applications.

Summary

  • Reflection on Why You Chose This Class/Major:
    • Articulate reasons for selecting kinesiology as a field of study.
    • Use evidence from course content to convince others of the value of kinesiology.
    • Key areas to define:
      • Kinesiology and its comprehensive approach.
      • The three strata of kinesiology: core domains, forms of movement, and professional applications.
      • The various forms of movement and their socio-cultural contexts.
      • The subdisciplines within kinesiology and their applications in career readiness and professional development.