How to Become a Kinesiotherapist

Kinesiotherapists apply principles of physical exercise to increase the mobility, stamina, and strength of people who have physical limitations, and those who require extensive physical conditioning.  Kinesiotherapy is the study of human movement.  It is considered an allied health profession, much like medical assisting or pharmacy.  Kinesiotherapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, medical centers, sports medicine centers, schools, universities, and centers for the disabled, among others.  They help people become more mobile (ambulatory), help them maximize the use of prosthetic devices,  learn to drive and work, and with other functions related to physical movement.  Training in kinesiotherapy includes physical education, nutrition, anatomy, human growth & development, therapeutic movement, and psychology.  The average starting salary for a kinesiotherapist is around $36,000, but experienced kinesiotherapists can earn much more, depending on location and type of facility.  Job prospects are excellent, with an aging population and the desire to remain active and working late in life.


1. Decide if this is the right career for you.  A good place to start your exploration is the American Kinesiotherapy Association website.  To decide if you want to become a kinesiotherapist, you might also want to contact a working kinesiotherapist to arrange an informational interview.

2. Obtain a bachelor of science degree from a program accredited by the Commission of Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).  You can find these programs on the CAAHEP website, or in the annual American Medical Association (AMA) publication, "Health Care Careers Directory."  Your education will include an internship.

3. Get registered.  Once you have graduated, you can become certified by the American Kinesiotherapy Association.  This registration, which includes an examination, carries many benefits to you, as a working kinesiotherapist.