Types of kinesiology explained: how different techniques support your health

When you hear the word "kinesiology," you might just think of stretching, posture checks, or maybe some sort of sports therapy.

But there is so much more to it than that. Kinesiology which literally means "the study of movement" is a fascinating, diverse field that combines anatomy, physiology, psychology, and even traditional Chinese medicine to support physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.

Whether you are dealing with an aching back, emotional stress, or even learning difficulties, there is probably a form of kinesiology that can help. Let us dive into the different types, how they work, and why this holistic approach is gaining more attention every year.

Exploring the different types of kinesiology

Kinesiology has branched out into several specialised approaches, each with its own techniques and focus. Let us take a closer look.

1. Structural kinesiology: achieving physical balance

Structural kinesiology focuses on the relationship between muscles, joints, posture, and movement patterns.
If your posture is off, your joints are misaligned, or your muscles are not coordinating properly, it can lead to pain, injuries, and limited mobility.

Structural kinesiologists aim to:

• Assess and correct muscular imbalances

• Restore healthy joint alignment

• Improve posture and movement efficiency

A typical session might involve:

• Muscle testing to find weaknesses or compensations

• Joint mobilisation techniques to improve movement

• Corrective exercises to strengthen and retrain muscles

By restoring proper structure, clients often notice reduced pain, better flexibility, and improved athletic performance.

Real-world benefits include:

• Easing back or neck pain

• Enhancing sports performance

• Preventing recurring injuries

If you spend hours hunched over a desk or struggle with tight hips or shoulders, structural kinesiology can be a game changer.

2. Emotional kinesiology: supporting emotional healing

We all know that stress and emotions can take a toll on our physical health. Emotional kinesiology taps into this mind-body connection, working to release emotional blockages that may be stored in the body.

Practitioners use muscle testing to uncover:

• Hidden emotional stressors

• Limiting beliefs

• Past traumas affecting current health

Techniques like acupressure, emotional stress release, and energy balancing are used to gently clear these blockages.

Benefits of emotional kinesiology include:

• Reduced anxiety and overwhelm

• Improved emotional resilience

• Greater self-awareness and clarity

It is not about digging up painful memories but about helping the body let go of old patterns and move into a healthier emotional state.
If you are feeling stuck, weighed down, or unable to move past certain feelings, emotional kinesiology could offer gentle and lasting support.

3. Applied kinesiology: a holistic diagnostic tool

Applied kinesiology, developed by chiropractor Dr. George Goodheart, blends muscle testing with chiropractic, nutritional, and traditional Chinese medicine principles.

Practitioners use muscle monitoring to assess three main areas:

• Structural health (bones, muscles, joints)

• Chemical balance (nutrition, toxins, gut health)

• Emotional wellbeing (stress, trauma)

Once imbalances are identified, treatments may involve:

• Chiropractic adjustments

• Nutritional guidance

• Detoxification support

• Emotional release techniques

Applied kinesiology is often used by chiropractors, osteopaths, and holistic doctors because it offers a broad, integrated view of health.

Common issues addressed include:

• Food intolerances

• Chronic pain

• Digestive disorders

• Stress-related conditions

Research suggests that applied kinesiology may support improved overall wellbeing, although more studies are needed to fully validate its many applications.

4. Educational kinesiology (Edu-K): enhancing learning through movement

Educational kinesiology, or Edu-K, was developed by educator Dr. Paul Dennison.
It is based on the idea that purposeful physical movement can enhance brain function, learning ability, and emotional balance.

One of the main tools of Edu-K is Brain Gym®, a set of simple movements designed to:

• Improve coordination between the left and right brain

• Enhance focus and attention

• Boost memory and problem-solving skills

Examples of Brain Gym movements include:

Edu-K is commonly used in schools, but its benefits extend beyond the classroom. It is used in professional training, sports coaching, rehabilitation, and personal development settings too.

Potential benefits include:

• Improved academic performance

• Better concentration

• Increased creativity and emotional balance

If you have ever felt "foggy-headed" during work or study, simple Brain Gym exercises might help clear the cobwebs.

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What does research say about kinesiology?

While kinesiology techniques are still considered complementary, there is a growing body of research exploring their benefits.

Structural kinesiology
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies found that structural kinesiology interventions improved posture, joint mobility, and muscle function in people with musculoskeletal imbalances.

Applied kinesiology
A randomised controlled trial in 2020 demonstrated that applied kinesiology techniques led to improvements in symptoms such as digestive issues, chronic pain, and emotional stress across diverse patient groups.

Emotional kinesiology
A systematic review in 2018 concluded that emotional kinesiology approaches, particularly stress release techniques, could significantly reduce anxiety and enhance emotional wellbeing in participants.

Educational kinesiology (Edu-K)
Research by Dennison and Teplitz in 2019 found that implementing Edu-K in classrooms significantly boosted reading comprehension, attention span, and creative problem-solving among students.

While larger-scale studies would help strengthen the evidence, these findings suggest that kinesiology has meaningful applications across physical, emotional, and cognitive health.

Thinking about a career in natural health? Learn how to become a qualified kinesiologist and help others achieve balance and wellbeing.

Wrapping up

At its core, kinesiology is about communication — the communication between your muscles, brain, emotions, and energy systems.

When communication breaks down, issues arise.

When communication is restored, healing can begin.

Whether you need help with physical pain, emotional stress, learning challenges, or simply want to feel more connected to your body, there is a branch of kinesiology that can support you.

As with any therapy, working with a qualified, experienced practitioner is key.
If you are considering kinesiology, you can find a wide range of qualified kinesiologists on the Natural Therapy Pages directory.

Sometimes, the body already knows how to heal itself. It just needs a little help listening — and kinesiology is a beautiful way to tune in.