Disciplines
Within kinesiology, many different schools of thought have developed since its inception in the 1960s. Below are some of the most important schools and disciplines highlighted. What makes a kinesiologist, who has completed a full 4-year vocational training program, unique is that they use techniques from various approaches. A professional kinesiologist is a specialist in muscle testing and has in-depth knowledge of applying muscle tests to various types of complaints and aspects of the human body. Other practitioners who may use kinesiology techniques within their treatments include osteopaths, physiotherapists, naturopaths, nutritionists, dentists, and even an increasing number of general practitioners who offer holistic consultations that incorporate kinesiology applications. They use muscle testing as a diagnostic tool within their own specialized treatments. Applied kinesiology is often used in chiropractic and physiotherapy.
Applied Kinesiology:
Developed in the 1960s by Dr. George Goodheart, Applied Kinesiology (AK) is a diagnostic method that uses muscle testing to identify dysfunctions in the body. AK posits that every muscle is connected to a specific organ or body part, and muscle weakness can indicate imbalances such as structural problems, nutritional deficiencies, or energetic blockages. It combines principles from chiropractic, acupuncture, and nutrition, helping therapists make a holistic diagnosis. AK has had a significant influence on the development of kinesiology as a broader therapeutic discipline.
Clinical Kinesiology:
Developed by Dr. Alan Beardall, Clinical Kinesiology builds on Applied Kinesiology by incorporating more refined techniques for testing muscles and neurological responses. CK focuses primarily on understanding the neurological pathways and reflexes that affect muscle tension and body systems. By performing complex muscle tests, CK provides detailed information on the causes of health problems. This approach emphasizes the body's self-healing ability, with a focus on balancing the nervous system and energetic patterns to achieve optimal health.
Biokinesiology:
Developed by Dr. Walter H. Schmitt, Biokinesiology combines applied kinesiology with extensive knowledge of biochemistry and the neurological system. The emphasis is on the biochemical and physiological processes in the body and how these can be evaluated and balanced using muscle tests. The goal is to identify dysfunctions related to nutrients, hormones, and other biochemical imbalances. Biokinesiology has shifted the focus towards a deeper biochemical understanding of health and disease within kinesiology.
Edu-K and Brain Gym:
Edu-K (Educational Kinesiology) and Brain Gym were developed by Paul and Gail Dennison and focus on the connection between movement and learning performance. Brain Gym consists of simple, targeted body movements that enhance the cooperation between the two hemispheres of the brain, improving concentration, memory, and coordination. Edu-K is often used for learning difficulties, ADHD, and dyslexia. This school of thought has made a significant impact by highlighting how physical movements can improve neurological and cognitive functioning, especially in children.
Three-In-One Kinesiology:
Three-In-One Concepts, also known as One Brain Kinesiology, was developed by Gordon Stokes, Daniel Whiteside, and Candace Callaway. This approach combines applied kinesiology with emotional stress release techniques. The goal is to identify and balance emotional blockages that impact physical and mental health. The method uses muscle testing to identify unconscious emotional patterns, leading to self-awareness and emotional release. This school of thought has emphasized the importance of emotional well-being within kinesiology.
Applied Physiology:
Developed by Richard Utt, Applied Physiology extends the principles of kinesiology with advanced techniques to balance the body energetically and physiologically. AP uses acupuncture points, meridians, and other energetic systems to address stress and imbalances in the body. This approach emphasizes the subtle relationship between the physical and energetic layers of the body. Through this holistic approach, therapists can work on a wide range of problems, from physical complaints to emotional and spiritual imbalances.
Touch for Health:
Developed by Dr. John Thie, Touch for Health is one of the most accessible forms of kinesiology. It focuses on the body's self-healing ability and uses muscle testing to identify and correct energetic blockages and imbalances. TFH combines principles from traditional Chinese medicine, such as meridians, with modern techniques such as massage and touch. It is designed to empower individuals without a medical background to promote their own health and that of their family. This approach has made kinesiology accessible to a broader audience.
Neuro-Training:
Developed by Andrew Verity, Neuro-Training emphasizes the neurological systems of the body. It combines kinesiology with techniques from neurology, psychology, and naturopathy. Neuro-Training focuses on retraining the nervous system to better respond to stress and health challenges. By improving neuroplasticity, this method helps clients recover more effectively from trauma, fatigue, and other health issues.
Systemic Kinesiology:
Systemic Kinesiology is a holistic approach that integrates various body systems, including structural, chemical, emotional, and energetic aspects. Developed by Brian H. Butler, it uses muscle testing to identify imbalances between these systems. Butler's work emphasizes that disruptions in one system often affect other systems. Methods such as nutritional supplements, body corrections, and emotional stress release are used to restore overall health and balance.
Energetic Kinesiology:
Energy Kinesiology, developed by Charles Krebs, emerged from the principles of traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. Krebs combined these ancient wisdoms with modern kinesiology techniques to develop a method that focuses on balancing the body's energy system, such as the meridians and chakras. Muscle testing is used to detect disruptions in these energy fields, and subtle energetic corrections are made to remove blockages. This approach is often applied to stress-related issues and energy deficiencies.