How to Be Kinesiology Instructor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 17, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Kinesiology instructors play an important role in teaching physical education and health-related courses. Their knowledge and expertise can help students understand and apply concepts related to physical fitness and health. By educating students in the fundamentals of exercise physiology, biomechanics, anatomy, and nutrition, kinesiology instructors can help them lead healthier and more active lifestyles, which can have a positive effect on their overall physical and mental well-being.

Furthermore, by teaching these principles, kinesiology instructors can also help students develop an appreciation for physical activity and its many benefits, such as improved strength and endurance, increased flexibility and coordination, improved cardiovascular health, and reduced stress levels. a well-qualified kinesiology instructor can have a profound impact on students' lives and help them build a strong foundation for a lifetime of healthy habits.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelors Degree. A bachelors degree in kinesiology or a related field is typically the minimum educational requirement to become a kinesiology instructor. Students should complete a degree program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Obtain Certification. Most employers prefer to hire applicants with professional certification, such as the American Kinesiology Association (AKA) Certified Kinesiology Instructor Certification. This certification is obtained by passing the AKA Certified Kinesiology Instructor Exam.
Gain Teaching Experience. Most employers prefer applicants who have experience teaching kinesiology courses or similar courses. Prospective instructors should gain experience through volunteer work, internships, or practicums.
Apply for Kinesiology Instructor Positions. Most kinesiology instructor positions require applicants to have a minimum of two years of teaching experience. Candidates should apply for positions at universities, community colleges, and private institutions.
Pursue Advanced Degrees. Many employers prefer instructors with advanced degrees, such as a masters or doctorate in kinesiology. Additional certifications, such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification, may also increase an applicants chances of obtaining a position.

Staying ahead and efficient requires thoughtful planning and execution. A key element of successful planning is to set achievable goals. Break down your goals into small, achievable tasks, and create a timeline to complete them.

it can be helpful to review the goals and deadlines regularly to ensure you are on track. Time management is an important part of staying ahead, as it allows you to focus on what needs to be done and eliminates procrastination. Developing effective strategies for tackling tasks and organizing your workspace can also help you stay ahead of the curve.

Finally, taking care of yourself is essential; set aside time for physical activity, healthy eating, and downtime to help maintain your energy and motivation. With these simple steps, you can stay ahead and be more efficient in your daily life.

You may want to check Kinesiology Manager, Kinesiology Coach, and Kinesiology Lab Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Design and implement exercise programs tailored to individuals needs and abilities
Monitor and evaluate individuals progress in order to adjust programs as needed
Educate individuals on proper technique for performing exercises and using fitness equipment
Demonstrate exercises and lead group fitness classes
Administer fitness tests and assessments
Communicate with other medical professionals to coordinate care plans
Develop and design instructional materials for use in classes
Maintain records related to students' progress
Remain current on industry trends and best practices
Provide support and motivation to individuals in order to help them reach their goals

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy and physiology
Knowledge of kinesiology and biomechanics
Knowledge of exercise physiology and nutrition
Understanding of sport science principles
Ability to develop and teach fitness classes
Knowledge of injury prevention and rehabilitation
Ability to create individualized exercise programs
Ability to assess student progress
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
CPR and first aid certification

Having a strong knowledge base in kinesiology is essential for an instructor. Without a comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of the body, it is impossible to effectively teach the principles of exercise and human movement. being able to demonstrate the correct form and technique of exercises is key in order to effectively demonstrate the correct way of doing them.

Having the ability to explain why certain exercises are beneficial, and how they can be modified when necessary, is also important. An instructor must also have excellent interpersonal skills as they will likely be working with students of varying ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Finally, having the ability to motivate and encourage students is vital in order to help them reach their potential.

With these skills, an instructor can ensure they are providing the best possible instruction and support to their students.

Kinesiology Occupational Therapist, Kinesiology Exercise Physiologist, and Kinesiology Data Analyst are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have teaching kinesiology?
What methods do you use to engage students in kinesiology?
How do you incorporate current trends and new technology into your kinesiology courses?
What strategies do you use to help students develop a comprehensive understanding of kinesiology?
What steps do you take to ensure that students are comfortable and safe while learning kinesiology?
How have you adapted your teaching style to meet the needs of different student populations?
How do you assess student learning in kinesiology?
Describe a kinesiology-related project or lesson plan you have created.
How do you stay up-to-date on new developments in the field of kinesiology?
What challenges have you faced while teaching kinesiology and how did you overcome them?

Common Tools in Industry

Exercise Bands. Elastic bands used to provide resistance during exercise, (eg: squat with bands).
Balance Board. A board used to train balance and stability, (eg: standing on one foot on the board).
Medicine Ball. A weighted ball used for strength training and agility drills, (eg: wall throws).
Foam Roller. A cylindrical foam tube used for self-massage and stretching, (eg: rolling out the calves).
Resistance Tube. Elastic tubes with handles used to provide resistance during exercise, (eg: chest flys with the tubes).
Stability Ball. An inflated ball used to challenge balance and stability, (eg: sit-ups with feet on the ball).
Weighted Vest. An adjustable vest with weights that can be worn during exercise to increase intensity, (eg: running with a weighted vest).
Plyometric Boxes. Stackable boxes used for jumping and power training, (eg: box jumps).
Agility Ladder. A flat ladder used for agility drills, (eg: side shuffles with the ladder).
Kettlebells. Cast iron weights with handles used for strength training and conditioning, (eg: kettlebell swing).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Kinesiology Association (AKA)
National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA)
American Council on Exercise (ACE)
American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
International Association of Health and Fitness Professionals (IAHFP)
National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
National Federation of Professional Trainers (NFPT)
International Sports Science Association (ISSA)

We also have Kinesiology Technician, Kinesiology Nutritionist, and Kinesiology Health Specialist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Anatomy. the study of the structure and organization of living things.
Physiology. the study of the functions of living things.
Biomechanics. the study of the mechanical aspects of movement in living organisms.
Musculoskeletal System. the system of muscles, bones, ligaments, and tendons that support and move the body.
Joints. a junction between two or more bones.
Muscles. a band or bundle of fibers that contract to move the body or its parts.
Flexibility. the ability to bend and stretch without injury.
Range of Motion. the degree to which a joint can be moved through its available range.
Strength. the ability to exert force against a resistance.
Core Stability. muscular strength and coordination that supports the trunk of the body.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are necessary to be a Kinesiology Instructor?

To be a Kinesiology Instructor, individuals typically need to have a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology or a related field, as well as a valid teaching license.

How much does a Kinesiology Instructor typically earn?

The average salary for a Kinesiology Instructor is around $60,000 per year.

What type of environment do Kinesiology Instructors usually work in?

Kinesiology Instructors usually work in schools, universities, and other educational institutions.

What duties does a Kinesiology Instructor typically perform?

The primary duties of a Kinesiology Instructor include teaching courses, developing curriculum, and assessing student performance.

What type of skills do Kinesiology Instructors need to possess?

Kinesiology Instructors need to have strong organizational, communication, and teaching skills, as well as an understanding of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology.