National Kinesiology Week was June 1-8, 2024, a week dedicated to celebrating the work of Kinesiologists locally and across the country. Kinesiology is the science of human movement, utilizing evidence-based knowledge from anatomy, physiology, and biomechanical sciences. In Ontario, as of 2013, a practicing Kinesiologist must be a registered member of the regulatory college, the
College of Kinesiology of Ontario make it the first region in the world to recognize Kinesiologists as a self-governing health care profession.
A Registered Kinesiologist can work in a variety of settings such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, academia or community care. The practice of kinesiology can range from health promotion or injury rehabilitation to fitness, athletics, chronic disease management, as well as research.
Did you know Abilities Centre has Registered Kinesiologists on staff? They work in our Post-Rehabilitation, Member Experience and Research departments. We reached out to learn more about our Kinesiologists and their experiences in the field.
A common theme explaining
why our Kinesiologists chose this career was the connection between their active lifestyles (sports, dance, exercise) and the study of Kinesiology.
Being an athlete, you become fascinated with the mechanics behind the body's movement.
- Hannah, Program Instructor in Post Rehab
[Kinesiology] was a path that seamlessly blended my love for fitness with my curiosity about anatomy and physiology.
– Isha, Program Instructor in Post Rehab
We asked our Kinesiologists
‘What does Kinesiology mean to you?’ and while each response highlighted the science behind Kinesiology, they also emphasized the significant role of physical movement in improving health. Kinesiologists understand how daily movement influences our well-being and are dedicated to helping individuals lead healthy lifestyles.
Kinesiology embodies a holistic approach to combating disease and promoting overall well-being.
– Isha, Program Instructor in Post Rehab
The benefits of physical activity span mental, physical and social boundaries.
– Hannah, Program Instructor in Post Rehab
Kinesiology has allowed me to help support individuals on their health journey – healing from a sport injury to rehabilitating after cardiac or cancer treatment.
– Meagan, Senior Manager of Research
Across the board, AC Kinesiologists shared they were motivated by the impact their practice has on the people they work with. Supporting individuals as they improve physically, mentally and enhance their quality of life provides motivation to continue their practice of Kinesiology. Reflecting on their years of experience, we invited them to share some notable
highlights from their careers in Kinesiology
so far:
I have been a practicing Kinesiologists for 17 years, becoming registered in 2013 when the College of Kinesiology of Ontario was founded. I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings but found my passion in research. My research initially focused on cancer and exercise rehabilitation and has expanded with my role at Abilities Centre. Throughout my post-secondary graduate career and research projects, it is always a highlight when a participant remarks their participation in a research study has helped them feel better.
- Meagan, Senior Manager of Research
In my second year of my undergraduate degree, I had the opportunity to be a member on a student led committee called Motionball. Motionball is an organization that organizes and holds a Marathon of Sport for Special Olympic athletes. I remained on the committee for the rest of my undergraduate education. To this day, seeing the joy these events brought to their participants remains the highlight of my Kinesiology career. This opportunity ignited my passion for Adapted Physical Activity, which I moved to specialize in during my post graduate education.
- Hannah, Program Instructor in Post Rehab
One of the most significant highlights of my Kinesiology career so far has been the profound connections I've developed with my clients. Working with individuals facing diverse conditions, from stroke to ALS, has offered me a window into their journeys. Witnessing their resilience and maintaining a positive outlook on life despite their challenges has been incredibly inspiring.
– Isha, Program Instructor in Post Rehab
Abilities Centre is proud to have Registered Kinesiologists dedicated to improving the lives of others through physical movement on our staff. For those that are looking to connect or work with one of our Kinesiologists, please reach out to postrehab@abilitiescentre.org for support. For more information on the practice of Kinesiology, check out:
College of Kinesiology of Ontario
Ontario Kinesiology Association
Canadian Kinesiology Alliance
Authors Bio:
Hannah Stoneman (she/her) is a Program Instructor in the Post Rehabilitation Department at the Abilities Centre. She spends her days working with adults with various chronic conditions to improve their physical capacity through movement and physical activity. She holds a Bachelors and Masters in Kinesiology from the University of Toronto. Hannah is passionate about the Abilities Centre's mission of creating an accessible and inclusive sport and recreation space for all.
Isha Leghari (she/her) is a Program Instructor and Personal Trainer at the Abilities Centre. She completed her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology at Ontario Tech University and is currently completing her Masters in Occupational and Public Health. Isha is dedicated to helping individuals navigate their health and wellness journeys. She works with diverse populations and is passionate about providing individualized exercises and classes that are accessible for all.
Meagan Marques (she/her) is the Senior Manager, Research at Abilities Centre. She holds a Masters in Health Sciences and is completing her Doctoral Degree in Medical Science. Meagan is passionate about sharing the amazing work Abilities Centre does and supports the evaluation of programs and services. With over 12 years of experience in research settings, she also supports research initiatives of internal program and with external partners.