Introduction to Kinesiology: Studying Physical Activity Third Edition

Introduction to Kinesiology: Studying Physical Activity, Third Edition, explains the evolving
discipline of kinesiology, demonstrating how its many subject areas integrate into a unified
body of knowledge. This all-inclusive approach gives students a solid background in the field
and prepares them for further study and course work. Engaging and jargon-free, this
outstanding text also introduces students to the available job prospects and areas of study
and professional practice in kinesiology.
Introduction to Kinesiology, Third Edition, orients and prepares students for in-depth studies
in their areas of interest. The broad scope of this text acknowledges students’ diverse
interests and aspirations in teaching and coaching, professional, and scholarly career tracks.
Within the text, top kinesiologists expand discussion of physical activity beyond exercise,
sport, or health-related activity in order to broaden conceptions of physical activity and the
potential contributions of kinesiology.
The book is organized into three parts: Experiencing Kinesiology, Scholarly Study of
Kinesiology, and Professional Practice in Kinesiology. Throughout the text, emphasis on the
integration of experience, formal study, and professional practice seeks to balance the
importance of these unique and interrelated dimensions of the discipline.
-Experiencing Kinesiology provides broad discussion of how physical activity experiences in
sport, exercise, work, rehabilitation, and daily living contribute to the understanding of
kinesiology. This section concentrates on how kinesiologists design and manipulate physical
activity experiences. It also discusses the subjective aspects of physical activity, inviting
students to consider various types of knowledge and understanding to be gleaned from the
experience of physical activity.
-Scholarly Study of Kinesiology introduces students to the academic subdisciplines of
kinesiology, including philosophy, history, and sociology of physical activity; motor behavior;
Description
sport and exercise psychology; and biomechanics and physiology of physical activity. Job
descriptions of professionals in each subdiscipline educate students on academic careers
available, and practical, real-world applications illustrate the importance of the subdiscipline
and how it may relate or contribute to a variety of professional endeavors.
-Professional Practice in Kinesiology defines the responsibilities and requirements of
professionals in health and fitness, therapeutic exercise, teaching, coaching, and sport
management. Using a step-by-step process, students can determine whether their interest,
talent, and motivation are appropriate for a career in kinesiology. Work setting analyses,
educational qualifications, case studies, profiles of working professionals, and career advice
provide additional information for career considerations.
Both new and returning contributors share their perspectives in fully updated chapters
complemented by full-color photos and illustrations. Professional Profiles, interviews with
kinesiology professionals found throughout the text, illustrate how knowledge of kinesiology
subareas applies to professional practice. Chapter objectives help students keep the main
ideas in mind as they read through the chapter, and chapter summaries can be found at the
end of each chapter to reinforce ideas. Key points and sidebars supplement information in
the text. Study questions at the end of each chapter help students focus on key areas of the
text. Exercises and activities actively involve students in learning the material.
Introduction to Kinesiology, Third Edition, is also available as an e-book. The e-book is
available at a reduced price and allows students to highlight, take notes, and easily access
the online study guide features with direct links throughout the text. When purchased through
the Human Kinetics site, access to the e-book is immediately granted when your order is
received. The print book and e-book are also available as a package.
The third edition of Introduction to Kinesiology presents the discipline of kinesiology in a new
and exciting way. Clearly organized and reader-friendly, this exemplary text portrays the
variety, complexity, elegance, and importance of physical activity. With its full-color format
and engaging writing style, the text will be a beneficial tool as it orients students to the
discipline of kinesiology and its diverse professions.