The Rich History of Professional Kinesiology Practice

a Summary of the history and development of Professional Kinesiology Practice (Kinesiopractic)

Introduction to PKP

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare and wellness, there are numerous holistic approaches that have gained popularity over the years. Professional Kinesiology Practice is one such discipline that has been making waves in the world of natural health and well-being. But what is the history of Professional Kinesiology Practice, and how did it come to be the respected field it is today? Join us on a journey through time as we delve into the fascinating history of Kinesiology and its development into a recognized and respected profession.

The Roots of Kinesiology

Kinesiology, as we know it today, has its roots in the early 1960s when Dr. George Goodheart, a chiropractor from the United States, began experimenting with muscle testing as a diagnostic tool. Dr. Goodheart believed that muscles could reveal valuable information about a person’s overall health and well-being. His innovative ideas laid the foundation for what would later become Professional Kinesiology Practice and that lead to the registered trademark Kinesiopractic®.

The Emergence of Applied Kinesiology

In 1964, Dr. Goodheart introduced Applied Kinesiology (AK), which combined principles of chiropractic care with muscle testing techniques. Applied Kinesiology aimed to identify imbalances in the body’s energy systems, meridians, and organs. It quickly gained recognition within the chiropractic community and expanded its scope to encompass various aspects of holistic health.

The Birth of Professional Kinesiology Practice

As the popularity of Kinesiology grew, it began to evolve into its own distinct profession. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, other healthcare professionals, including naturopaths and acupuncturists, started integrating muscle testing and AK techniques into their practices. This led to the establishment of Professional Kinesiology Practice as a unique and independent field of natural healthcare.

Key Contributors to Kinesiology's Development

Several individuals played pivotal roles in shaping the history of Professional Kinesiology Practice:

Dr. George Goodheart: Widely regarded as the founder of Kinesiology, Dr. Goodheart’s pioneering work in muscle testing and Applied Kinesiology laid the groundwork for the entire field.

John Thie: In 1973, John Thie introduced Touch for Health, a system that simplified Kinesiology techniques for the general public. This accessible approach made Kinesiology more widely known and accepted.

Dr. Alan Beardall: Dr. Beardall contributed significantly to the growth of Kinesiology by integrating nutrition and emotional well-being into the practice. His teachings expanded the scope of Kinesiology beyond musculoskeletal issues. The International Kinesiology College (IKC): Founded in 1976, the IKC played a crucial role in standardizing Kinesiology education and promoting its professionalization globally.

Dr Bruce Dewe: Dr. Bruce Dewe is a name synonymous with the evolution of Professional Kinesiology Practice. He is widely regarded as a pioneer in this field, having dedicated his life to researching and developing the techniques that have become integral to PKP. Dr. Dewe’s journey in the realm of alternative medicine and kinesiology began in the 1970s. In 1987, Dr. Bruce Dewe co-founded the International College of Professional Kinesiology (ICPKP) along with other prominent figures in the field.

The Birth of Professional Kinesiology Practice

The birth of Professional Kinesiology Practice can be traced back to Dr. Dew’s desire to integrate the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, including meridians and acupressure, into the muscle testing framework of Kinesiology. He envisioned a practice that would not only address physical ailments but also explore the emotional, mental, and energetic aspects of health. This holistic approach aimed to treat the root causes of health issues rather than merely alleviating symptoms.

PKP is based on several core principles, including:

Muscle Testing: PKP practitioners (Kinesiopractors) use muscle testing to access information from the body’s energy systems. By monitoring changes in muscle strength, they can identify imbalances and areas of concern.

Energy Corrections: PKP utilizes various techniques to correct imbalances, including acupressure, emotional release, and nutritional recommendations. These corrections aim to restore harmony within the body.

Holistic Approach: PKP takes a holistic approach to health and wellness, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and energetic aspects of well-being.

For more of this read the following article: The Body’s Hidden Wisdom.

The Formation of the International College of Professional Kinesiology Practice (ICPKP)

In 1987, Dr. Dew, along with a group of like-minded individuals, founded the International College of Professional Kinesiology Practice (ICPKP). This organization played a crucial role in formalizing and promoting Professional Kinesiology Practice as a legitimate and recognized field within the realm of alternative medicine. The ICPKP established training programs, certifications, and a code of ethics to ensure the highest standards of practice.

The establishment of ICPKP marked a pivotal moment in the history of PKP, as it aimed to create a standardized curriculum, ethical guidelines, and certification programs for practitioners.

Since its inception, ICPKP has continued to evolve and expand, attracting practitioners and enthusiasts from around the world. Today, the ICPKP boasts a global presence, with trained professionals offering PKP services in various countries. Its holistic approach to health and well-being has garnered a dedicated following, with patients seeking PKP as an alternative or complementary therapy.

Modern Professional Kinesiology Practice

Today, Professional Kinesiology Practice has evolved into a well-established and respected field of natural healthcare. Practitioners use muscle testing, manual therapy, and a holistic approach to help clients achieve physical, emotional, and energetic balance. Kinesiologists work in various settings, including private practices, wellness centers, and even mainstream healthcare facilities. Professional Kinesiology Practice became a specialized branch of kinesiology that focuses on the application of muscle testing as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. PKP goes beyond the study of movement and delves into the intricate connections between muscles, emotions, and the body’s energy systems.

The Impact and Global Spread of PKP

Kinesiology’s growth hasn’t been limited to any particular region. It has spread worldwide, with professional associations and educational institutions dedicated to its advancement. These organizations ensure that Kinesiopractors adhere to high standards of ethics and competence.

Over the years, PKP has gained recognition and acceptance worldwide. It has attracted practitioners from diverse backgrounds, including healthcare professionals, therapists, and individuals seeking alternative healing methods. The effectiveness of Professional Kinesiology Practice in addressing a wide range of health issues, from pain management to emotional well-being, has contributed to its global popularity.

Conclusion

The history of Professional Kinesiology Practice is a testament to the power of innovation and holistic approaches to healthcare. From its humble beginnings with Dr. George Goodheart’s experiments to its widespread recognition today, Kinesiology has come a long way.

Professional Kinesiology Practice, with Dr. Bruce Dew and the International College of Professional Kinesiology Practice (ICPKP) at its helm, has transformed the world of alternative health and holistic wellness. The evolution of PKP from its roots in kinesiology to a comprehensive system for restoring balance in the body and mind is a testament to the dedication and innovation of its founders and practitioners.

This discipline continues to help people achieve better health and well-being by addressing not only physical issues but also emotional and energetic imbalances. As we look to the future, it’s clear that Kinesiology will remain a valuable component of the holistic healthcare landscape, continually evolving to meet the changing needs of individuals seeking natural and holistic solutions to their health concerns.

By Dirk van Wyk