Kinesiologist

Description and Responsibilities

Kinesiologists are healthcare professionals who use movement for prevention, treatment and performance purposes. They design safe and appropriate physical activity programs in order to develop autonomous and sustainable physical activity suited to the needs of their clients. Kinesiologists promote the benefits of physical activity and healthy lifestyle to improve health.

Education and Training Requirements

Kinesiology degree programs are offered at the following universities:

• Université Concordia  
• Université de Montréal (in French only)
• Université de Sherbrooke (in French only)
• Université du Québec à Chicoutimi (UQAC) (in French only)
• Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) (in French only)
• Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR) (in French only)
• Université Laval (in French only)
• Université McGill 
• Université du Québec à Rimouski (UQAR)  (in French only)

Required Interests, Skills and Personality Type

• Must be a good communicator and listener
• Must be able to adapt to all environments and clienteles
• Must enjoy physical work and handling (medical) instruments
• Must know how to observe and analyze situations and people
• Must love contact with the public

Personality Type (RIASEC)

ISR

• I - Prefers studying, understanding and solving problems
• S - Prefers to be in contact with people and to help them
• R - Prefers practical work and handling tools

Work Environment

Kinesiologists work in: 

• Hospitals (in French only)
• Rehabilitation centres (in French only)
• Residential and long-term care centres (CHSLDs) (in French only)
• Local community services centres (CLSCs) (in French only)

Useful Links

• Fédération des kinésiologues du Québec  (in French only)
• Sports and Recreation Program Officers – Emploi-Québec 
• Video: Testimony of a kinesiologist in athletic performance – ULSanté  (in French only)
• Video: Testimony of a kinesiologist specialized in cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation – ULSanté  (in French only)
• Video: Testimony of a kinesiologist with a degree from Université Laval who works for the Government of Québec – ULSanté  (in French only)
• Video: Testimony of a kinesiologist – ULSanté  (in French only)