The Origins of Kinesiology
Kinesiology, derived from the Greek words "kinesis" (movement) and "logos" (study), is the scientific study of human movement. The discipline has roots dating back to ancient civilizations, where physicians and scholars recognized the importance of movement for health and healing.
The formal study of kinesiology emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when scientists began systematically analyzing human motion, muscle function, and biomechanics. This laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Sports Kinesiology™.
Development of Applied Kinesiology
Dr. George Goodheart
Founder of
Applied Kinesiology
In 1964, Dr. George Goodheart, a chiropractor, developed Applied Kinesiology (AK), a diagnostic system that uses manual muscle testing to evaluate various aspects of a patient's health. This breakthrough connected the relationship between muscle function, organ health, and the body's energy systems.
Applied Kinesiology introduced the concept that muscles could be used as indicators of overall body function, and that specific techniques could be used to restore proper muscle balance and improve health outcomes.
The Birth of Sports Kinesiology™
Sports Kinesiology™ emerged as a specialized application of kinesiological principles specifically tailored for athletes and active individuals. Pioneered by practitioners who recognized the unique demands placed on the athletic body, Sports Kinesiology™ combines:
- • Biomechanical analysis of athletic movement
- • Muscle testing for performance optimization
- • Injury prevention strategies
- • Recovery and rehabilitation protocols
- • Custom orthotics and support systems
Modern Sports Kinesiology™
Today, Sports Kinesiology™ is practiced worldwide by certified practitioners who work with everyone from weekend warriors to professional athletes. The field continues to evolve with advances in technology, including computerized gait analysis, 3D motion capture, and custom orthotic fabrication.
Dr. Brian Garrett has been instrumental in advancing Sports Kinesiology™, developing new assessment techniques and treatment protocols that have helped thousands of athletes achieve optimal performance while reducing injury risk.
The Future of Sports Kinesiology™
As our understanding of human movement deepens, Sports Kinesiology™ continues to integrate new research and technologies. The field is increasingly recognized by mainstream medicine and sports science as a valuable approach to optimizing athletic performance and preventing injuries.
With a growing network of certified practitioners, Sports Kinesiology™ is more accessible than ever to athletes at all levels who want to move better, perform better, and live pain-free.