How to Be Occupational Kinesiologist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 1, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Occupational Kinesiologists are health professionals who specialize in the use of movement and physical activity to improve health outcomes for individuals. They often work with clients and patients to assess physical and cognitive abilities and limitations, develop exercise and activity programs, and design interventions to improve mobility, strength, balance, and coordination. Through their work, they can help improve quality of life by reducing pain, increasing flexibility and range of motion, and improving overall physical health. As a result, the effects of their work can be seen in improved physical functioning, increased productivity, reduced risk of injury, and decreased health care costs.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a bachelors degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field. A bachelors degree is typically the minimum educational requirement for occupational kinesiologists.
Pursue a masters degree in occupational kinesiology or a related field. A masters degree is recommended for those interested in pursuing a career as an occupational kinesiologist.
Obtain certification from a recognized professional organization. Organizations such as the American Kinesiology Association (AKA) offer certification in occupational kinesiology.
Complete an internship or apprenticeship. Gaining hands-on experience in the field of occupational kinesiology is essential to becoming a successful occupational kinesiologist.
Participate in continuing education courses. Continuing education courses can help occupational kinesiologists stay up-to-date on the latest research and trends in the field.
Build a portfolio. Creating a portfolio of your work is an important step in becoming an occupational kinesiologist. Your portfolio should highlight your skills and experience working with clients.
Join professional organizations. Joining professional organizations such as the AKA will help connect you with other professionals in the field and provide you with access to professional development opportunities.

As an occupational kinesiologist, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest research and practices in the field. Staying informed of the advancements and changes in the industry is essential to ensure that you remain qualified and knowledgeable in your practice. To do this, one should stay active in their professional organization and attend continuing education courses or conferences that focus on the latest topics.

reading relevant literature, such as journals and books, can help to further expand ones knowledge. Finally, networking with other professionals can provide insight into the current trends and best practices in the field. By keeping up-to-date with the developments in the field, occupational kinesiologists can ensure they are staying qualified and knowledgeable in their practice.

You may want to check Occupational Safety Inspector, Occupational Medicine Physician, and Occupational Health and Safety Officer for alternative.

Job Description

Design, develop and implement occupational kinesiology programs to improve the physical performance of individuals in the workplace.
Design and implement ergonomics evaluations and workplace modifications to reduce strain on employees.
Monitor and evaluate physical performance of employees to identify areas of improvement.
Educate employees on proper body mechanics and exercise techniques to reduce injury risk.
Develop and implement rehabilitation programs for injured workers.
Develop and implement return-to-work programs for employees recovering from injury or illness.
Analyze employee work tasks to identify potential injury risks and recommend preventive actions.
Design and implement job-specific physical conditioning programs to improve employee fitness and performance.
Develop and implement workplace wellness programs to improve employee health and productivity.
Work with employers to develop policies and procedures that promote safe working conditions and prevent workplace injuries.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics
Understanding of occupational health and safety regulations
Ability to analyze body movements and postures
Knowledge of ergonomics and workplace design
Knowledge of the principles of ergonomics and human factors
Ability to develop and implement workplace interventions
Ability to design and implement ergonomic assessments
Ability to communicate effectively with clients, employers, and colleagues
Ability to develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders
Knowledge of risk assessment and management procedures
Ability to identify risk factors that may lead to musculoskeletal disorders
Knowledge of computer software applications related to kinesiology
Ability to keep detailed records and reports
Knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations, and standards
Proficiency in problem solving and critical thinking
Ability to use research methods to evaluate programs and interventions

Occupational Kinesiologists are experts in the field of biomechanics, which is the study of the body in motion. As a result, they must have a strong understanding of anatomy and physiology, as well as the physics behind human movement. They must also be adept at problem solving and be able to come up with creative solutions to difficult problems.

One of the most important skills for an Occupational Kinesiologist is the ability to observe and analyze human movement patterns and design appropriate programs to help individuals improve their performance. Other skills include the ability to motivate people, strong interpersonal skills, and excellent communication skills. All these skills combined together make an Occupational Kinesiologist an invaluable asset to any organization.

Occupational Health Advisor, Occupational Environmental Scientist, and Occupational Health and Safety Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as an occupational kinesiologist?
How have you used kinesiology to help clients improve their daily functioning?
How would you evaluate a patient's functional capabilities for a particular job?
What strategies have you found most effective for helping patients who have physical limitations?
How do you stay current with the latest developments in kinesiology?
Describe a successful intervention you've implemented with a patient.
How do you assess a patient's risk of re-injury?
What strategies do you use to motivate patients to reach their goals?
How have you developed or implemented programs to help clients with disabilities?
What would you do if a patient refused to follow your recommended treatment plan?

Common Tools in Industry

Ergonomic Assessments. Examines the environment, equipment and job tasks of an individual to identify potential risks for injury or discomfort. (eg: Repetitive movements and prolonged static postures can be noted and recommendations for improvements can be made).
Job Analysis. A detailed study of individual job tasks and the requirements of the job. (eg: The physical, cognitive, and emotional demands of the job are evaluated).
Movement Analysis. Examines an individual's ability to perform job tasks efficiently and effectively. (eg: Posture, range of motion, and muscle strength are assessed).
Workplace Design. Examines the design of workstations, tools and equipment to ensure they meet ergonomic standards and promote safety. (eg: Properly placed monitors and task lighting can reduce eyestrain and fatigue).
Exercise Programs. Develops customized exercise programs to enhance job performance and reduce the risk of work related injuries. (eg: Stretching exercises for the upper body can improve range of motion and reduce neck and shoulder pain).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Kinesiologists
American College of Sports Medicine
National Strength and Conditioning Association
International Society of Biomechanics
American Physical Therapy Association
National Athletic Trainers Association
International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education
American Occupational Therapy Association
Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology
International Association of Kinesiologists

We also have Occupational Training Specialist, Occupational Physiotherapist, and Occupational Hazard Analyst jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Ergonomics. The study of how to design and arrange workplaces, products, and systems to make them more efficient and comfortable for people to use.
Biomechanics. The study of how forces act on the body and its parts during movement, including the effects of gravity, inertia, and friction.
Kinesiology. The study of human body movements, including the mechanics, anatomy, and physiology of the muscles, joints, and other structures involved in movement.
Posture. The position of the body when sitting, standing, or lying down, which is affected by the alignment of muscles and bones.
Muscle Control. The ability to control the tension of muscles in order to achieve efficient movement.
Functional Movement. The ability to move efficiently and safely in order to perform daily tasks and activities.
Workplace Design. The design of a workplace environment to reduce injury risks and maximize productivity.
Workplace Safety. The evaluation of the safety risks associated with performing certain tasks in a workplace environment.
Injury Prevention. Strategies used to reduce the risk of injury in a workplace environment.
Rehabilitation. The process of restoring physical and mental abilities after an injury or illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Occupational Kinesiology?

Occupational Kinesiology is a field of study that focuses on the analysis of human movement in occupational contexts, such as physical work activities, leisure activities, and sports.

What are the main goals of Occupational Kinesiology?

The main goals of Occupational Kinesiology are to improve performance, reduce fatigue, minimize risk of injury, and maximize efficiency in work-related activities.

What skills are required to be an Occupational Kinesiologist?

An Occupational Kinesiologist requires knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, physiology, and kinesiology; expertise in ergonomics and human factors; and the ability to assess and analyze movements for efficiency and safety.

What type of job opportunities are available for an Occupational Kinesiologist?

Job opportunities for an Occupational Kinesiologist include positions in industrial settings, in rehabilitation facilities, and in research and academic institutions.

How long does it typically take to become an Occupational Kinesiologist?

It typically takes 4-5 years to become an Occupational Kinesiologist, which includes completion of an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology or a related field and a graduate degree in Occupational Kinesiology.

Web Resources

Kinesiology: Occupational Science, M.S. < University of ... - Guide guide.wisc.edu
Occupational Therapy - Kinesiology kinesiology.education.wisc.edu
Occupational Therapy Admissions - Kinesiology kinesiology.education.wisc.edu