Where Does Kinesiology Originate From?

A look into the origins of kinesiology.

Kinesiology Begins With Muscle Monitoring

The term kinesiology derives from ancient Greek origins literally translates to “the study of movement.” 

Thus it is not surprising that kinesiology in its current form originates from the discovery of “muscle testing.” Muscle testing was first used in the early 1900’s by Orthopaedic Surgeon, R.W. Lovett to assess the extent of nerve damage in Polio patients. 

To understand the progression of kinesiology over the century I recommend reading this brief history by O’Neill Kinesiology College. 

Muscle testing was adopted and integrated by Chiropractors in the 1960’s and has since evolved into what they call “Energetic Kinesiology” which is featured at the bottom of the article. 

“Energetic kinesiology” is the modality that I am speaking of here. You can also learn more about Kinesiology in Australia and qualification standards on the AKA website here. 

Muscle Monitoring & Kinesiology Are Not The Same Thing

It’s important to understand that the common thread among all kinesiologists is the use of muscle monitoring. Muscle monitoring is the way that we communicate with the body gaining biofeedback which helps to unravel and resolve a client’s issues.

So put simply, kinesiologists use muscle monitoring but muscle monitoring is not kinesiology. 

The reason this is important is because muscle monitoring is a skill that can be learned and applied but without the completion of further training someone cannot deliver “kinesiology” in the context that we are discussing here. 

There are many talented professionals in the healing and coaching space who use muscle monitoring; however, it pays to understand the difference as from time to time someone will misrepresent themselves with these terms. 

The information listed on the site pertains to a kinesiologist with AKA accreditation, the industry body in Australia.