11 March 2025
Amy Taylor, Biokineticist
Biokinetics, or kinesiology, is often assumed to be personal training, which is just not the case. Biokinetics is a proudly South African profession that is relatively new to allied health, having only started in 1980s. A biokineticist is a specialist who uses exercise as a modality for therapy. They will use exercise prescription for the treatment of chronic conditions, the rehabilitation of injuries and science-based evidence to improve sports and physical performance, while ensuring a person has the best quality of life through an individualised exercise rehabilitation programme.
To qualify as a Biokineticist requires a five-year medical university degree. This includes a three-year undergraduate university degree, a one-year postgraduate Honours degree (inclusive of practical clinical rotations), and an additional year of full-time internship before full qualification is achieved. A biokineticist is then recognised and registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa, working alongside other health professionals.
Many countries around the world now recognise Biokinetics as a health profession, with similar rehabilitation professionals available such as Exercise Physiologist, Kinesiologist and Physical therapist.
Biokinetics and Physiotherapy, what is the difference?
Many patients confuse biokinetics with physiotherapy. A physiotherapist is a clinical therapist who typically uses a manual, hands-on approach with soft tissue and fascial releases, cupping or dry needling, stretches, and massages. They will prescribe exercise rehabilitation for initial phase treatment of an injury or chronic condition, whereas a biokineticist focuses more on secondary and final phase exercise rehabilitation. A biokineticist uses a number of different types of equipment including dumbells, treadmills, exercise bikes, medicine balls, resistance bands and other isokinetic devices to help their clients achieve full functionality.
The role of biokinetics in allied health
A Biokineticist provides rehabilitation for a variety of conditions including:
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