The History of Kinesiology in Alberta
From the study of human movement to a growing profession supporting health, rehabilitation and prevention.
Kinesiology has evolved alongside advances in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, rehabilitation and exercise science. As research has expanded our understanding of the relationship between movement and health, kinesiology has developed into a profession focused on applying that knowledge to improve function, recovery, and quality of life.
Today, kinesiologists work across health care, rehabilitation, workplaces, communities and performance settings.
The Growth of Kinesiology in Canada
Modern university kinesiology programs began to take shape in Canada during the latter half of the twentieth century. In 1967, the University of Waterloo and Simon Fraser University established early departments focused on biomedical physiology and kinesiology. In 1971, CCUPEKA (Canadian Council of University Physical Education and Kinesiology Administrators) was formed in order to set the national standards for university kinesiology and physical education programs across Canada.
As the field grew, professional associations emerged to support education, professional standards and public awareness. The first provincial kinesiology association was established in Ontario in 1982, followed by the formation of the Alberta Kinesiology Association in 1993.
Today, kinesiology is represented by professional organizations across Canada and has grown into a diverse profession supporting:
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Health care and rehabilitation
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Chronic disease management
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Workplace health and disability management
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Community health and healthy aging
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Sport and human performance
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Research and education
Kinesiology and Professional Regulation
As kinesiology has grown, so has the need for clear professional standards and public accountability.
Kinesiology became a regulated health profession in Ontario in 2013. Other provinces' kinesiology associations have also taken steps toward greater professional recognition and regulation. In 2026, Quebec’s government passed measures to begin the regulation process of Kinesiologists in a combined college structure alongside an analogous regulated health profession.
Professional regulation can help establish consistent standards for education, practice and professional accountability while giving the public greater safety and confidence in who is qualified to provide services.
[Learn more about Kinesiology Regulation →]
Kinesiology in Alberta
The Alberta Kinesiology Association was established in 1993 to represent and advance the profession in Alberta.
Today, more than 1,000 members are part of the Association. Kinesiologists work throughout the province in rehabilitation, health care, workplace wellness, community health, and performance settings.
As Alberta's health system continues to emphasize prevention, rehabilitation, community-based care and team-based services, there is increasing opportunity for kinesiologists to contribute.
Independently, or in this collaborative capacity, Kinesiologists’ work may support:
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Recovery and rehabilitation
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Chronic disease management
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Workplace injury prevention and return to work
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Healthy aging
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Community-based health and wellness
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Exercise and movement-based care
Looking Ahead
Kinesiology continues to evolve alongside Alberta's changing health-care needs.
The Alberta Kinesiology Association is working to strengthen professional standards, increase public awareness and support the continued integration of kinesiology into health care and community settings.
The Association is also actively pursuing the regulation of kinesiology in Alberta to strengthen public protection and professional accountability.
[Learn More About How Kinesiologists Support Alberta’s Health System →]
