What is Kinesiology
Understanding kinesiology, muscle testing and how Systematic Kinesiology takes a whole-person approach to wellbeing.
A Simple Introduction
What is Systematic Kinesiology?
The word kinesiology comes from the Greek word kinesis, meaning movement.
In its broadest sense, kinesiology is the study of human movement. Systematic Kinesiology is a whole-person approach to wellbeing that uses gentle muscle-response testing, conversation and practical techniques.
At KinesiologyZone, we teach this approach in Ireland, helping people explore how mental, chemical, physical and energetic aspects of wellbeing can be considered together. Whether you are curious about natural health, want to learn skills to use with family and friends, or are considering a new career direction, you can start by discovering what Systematic Kinesiology involves.
Understanding The Term
Kinesiology Can Mean Different Things
If you have searched for kinesiology online, you may have come across several different explanations.
1. Kinesiology & Human Movement
In movement science, kinesiology refers to the study of human movement, including how the body moves and functions during physical activity and exercise.
2. Applied Kinesiology
Applied Kinesiology is a distinct professional approach associated with manual muscle testing. It is important not to assume that every use of the word “kinesiology” refers to this specific approach.
3. Systematic Kinesiology
Systematic Kinesiology is the complementary approach taught by KinesiologyZone. It uses gentle muscle-response testing alongside observation and a whole-person perspective.
A Key Part of Systematic Kinesiology
What Is Muscle Testing?
Muscle testing is one of the techniques used within Systematic Kinesiology. A practitioner may ask a person to hold a muscle in a particular position while applying gentle pressure.
The practitioner observes the muscle’s response and combines that information with conversation, observation and their training to decide which techniques may be appropriate within the session.
1. Conversation: The session may begin by discussing what the person would like support with and what they hope to explore.
The Whole-Person View
The MCPE Approach
Systematic Kinesiology considers wellbeing through four connected areas, often referred to as MCPE.
Mental -
Thoughts, emotions, experiences and the ways stress may influence wellbeing.
Chemical -
Lifestyle and nutritional factors that may be considered as part of a wider picture.
Physical -
The body’s physical structure, movement and other factors considered during an assessment.
Energetic -
Energy-based concepts that form part of the Systematic Kinesiology framework taught at KinesiologyZone.
Why Do People Learn Kinesiology?
People discover Systematic Kinesiology for different reasons. You do not have to know your final goal before you begin learning.
For Yourself & Your Family
Some people begin because they are curious about the approach and want to develop practical knowledge they can explore for themselves or with family and friends.
Learning the foundations can be a way to understand Systematic Kinesiology before deciding whether further training is right for you.
For a Professional Path
Others are already working with people or are exploring a new direction. For them, learning Systematic Kinesiology can become the foundation for further professional training.
KinesiologyZone offers a progression from introductory learning through Balanced Health and into Diploma-level practitioner training.
How Can You Learn Systematic Kinesiology?
If you are new to kinesiology, you can explore the approach step by step rather than feeling that you need to make a big decision immediately.
STEP 1: Free Introductory Course
Start with an introduction to Systematic Kinesiology and learn more about the approach before deciding whether you want to go further.
Step 2: Balanced Health Course
Build a foundation in Systematic Kinesiology through structured learning, practical experience and guided study.
Step 3: Diploma Training
For those who decide to continue, Diploma-level training provides a pathway toward developing professional practitioner skills.
“I’m so delighted I did the Balanced Health Course and subsequently onto the Diploma professional training. – Carmel R, KinesiologyZone graduate”
Frequently Asked Questions About Kinesiology
Here are some of the questions people commonly ask when they first discover kinesiology.
What is kinesiology?
Kinesiology broadly refers to the study of human movement. The term is also used for different complementary approaches, including approaches involving muscle testing.
What is Systematic Kinesiology?
Systematic Kinesiology is a complementary wellbeing approach that combines gentle muscle-response testing, practical observation and a whole-person view of lifestyle and stress.
What is muscle testing?
Muscle testing involves applying gentle pressure to a muscle while observing its response. In Systematic Kinesiology, it may be used alongside conversation and observation as part of a session.
Is kinesiology a medical diagnosis?
No. Systematic Kinesiology is complementary care and should not be used as a replacement for appropriate medical tests, diagnosis or treatment.
Can beginners learn Systematic Kinesiology?
Yes. KinesiologyZone’s Balanced Health course is designed as a foundation course and can be started by people who are new to the subject.
Do I need to become a practitioner?
No. Some people learn for personal interest and to develop skills they can explore with family and friends. Professional training is a separate pathway.
Curious About Kinesiology?
You do not need to decide on your next step today. Start by learning more about Systematic Kinesiology and discover whether the approach is right for you.