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Kinesiology Types:  Different Varieties

Exploring the Different Types of Kinesiology

There are many titles given to the practice of Kinesiology and this article aims to draw out the differences between them.

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Kinesiology is a powerful complementary therapy that draws on many ancient health practices as well as incorporating more recent evolutions. It focuses on understanding the human body and its movements to promote physical and mental well-being.

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In the 1960s the core concepts of Kinesiology used today were formed by George Goodheart, since when various other branches have evolved.

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The aim of all the various disciplines of Kinesiology is to work holistically with clients to address their imbalances and rebalance their system, working towards optimal health and well-being.

 

All the Kinesiology titles below, listed in alphabetical order, include the following techniques:

  • muscle response testing

  • muscle monitoring

  • the ability to address imbalances within the whole person

 

It is a therapy that may be used alongside conventional practice

Applied Kinesiology

Applied kinesiology (AK) is a complementary therapy that uses muscle testing as a primary diagnostic tool to assess imbalances in the body’s structural, chemical, and emotional/mental health.

 

The key points about Applied Kinesiology are:

  • It is based on the principle that each muscle group is connected to a specific organ or system in the body, and muscle weakness or strength can reveal imbalances.

  • Practitioners use manual muscle testing, applying gentle pressure to specific muscles while the client resists, to identify these imbalances, and then apply various treatments like adjustments, nutrition, homeopathy, etc. to help restore balance.

  • AK views health as a “triad” of structural, chemical, and emotional/mental factors that all influence each other. An imbalance in one area can affect the others.

 

Applied kinesiology can be used to treat a variety of physical, mental, and spiritual issues, making it a versatile approach in holistic health.

Classical Kinesiology

  • The key points about classical kinesiology are:

    • It views health as a "triad" of these three interconnected factors, and aims to restore balance across all three areas.

    • Practitioners use manual muscle testing to assess the body's energy flows and identify any weaknesses or imbalances.

    • Once imbalances are detected, classical kinesiology employs various techniques to help rebalance the body, such as acupressure, nutrition, homeopathy, and more.

    • It is considered a more "orthodox" approach compared to some other forms of kinesiology, with extensive training in anatomy, physiology, and clinical medicine.

    • Classical kinesiology is used to address a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional issues, from minor problems to more chronic conditions.

    • It is intended to be used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical care, not as a replacement.

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Wellness Kinesiology

  • Wellness kinesiology is a branch of kinesiology developed by the kinesiologist Dr. Wayne Topping in 1990s and focuses on achieving overall wellness and balance in the body.

  • It employs a toolkit of techniques drawn from other branches of Kinesiology aiming to promote overall balance, vitality, and well-being by identifying and addressing imbalances through a comprehensive, non-invasive approach that combines principles from various disciplines.

  • As Dr Topping says, he took many courses from other kinesiology practitioners to give him a broad perspective of techniques used in the field.

  • Key Aspects of Wellness Kinesiology

  • Holistic Approach: It addresses the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and nutritional factors affecting well-being.

  • Personalised Treatment: Muscle testing helps develop customized treatment plans tailored to an individual's unique needs.

  • Stress Management: Techniques like emotional stress release help manage stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation.

  • Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation: It optimizes sports performance, prevents injuries, and aids in rehabilitation by analysing movement patterns and biomechanics.

  • Chronic Pain Management: It addresses underlying causes of chronic pain rather than just treating symptoms.

  • Nutritional Guidance: Muscle testing can identify potential dietary deficiencies or sensitivities, enabling targeted nutritional recommendations.

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