1.2: The Holistic Nature of Kinesiology

Learning Objectives

• Explain how physical, psychological, and social factors influence human movement and overall well-being.
• Analyze how cultural, societal, and environmental contexts shape attitudes, access, and participation in physical activity.

Kinesiology stands out for its integrative approach, drawing on insights from diverse fields such as physiology, psychology, philosophical, and sociology to provide a comprehensive understanding of human movement and its significant impact on health. This holistic perspective recognizes that health is not simply the absence of illness; rather, it encompasses a dynamic interplay of variables from all dimensions of wellness.  By celebrating the complexities of human movement, kinesiology explores how our bodies, minds, and social contexts are interconnected, paving the way for effective interventions that enhance overall well-being.  Kinesiology professionals recognize that movement is not merely a mechanical act that can be predicted by science; rather, it is a fundamental aspect of our humanity, fostering connections with ourselves and each other as we embark on a shared journey toward health.

Physiological Perspective

At its core, kinesiology looks at how physical activity nourishes our bodies and enhances our health. Engaging in regular exercise isn’t just about building muscle or shedding pounds; it’s a pathway to a healthier heart, improved lung capacity, strong bones, just to begin. Research highlights how physical activity supports cardiovascular health and metabolic function (Haskell et al., 2007; Warburton et al., 2006). Think of how invigorating it feels to go for a brisk walk or a jog—each step can strengthen your heart and improve circulation, making you feel more alive and connected to your body. This physiological focus emphasizes that being active is vital for preventing chronic diseases and promoting a long, fulfilling life.

Also within the physical realm, kinesiology seeks to better understand the mechanics of how we move. Biomechanical analyses help illustrate the intricate dance of forces that help us maintain balance and prevent injury (McGuine et al., 2017; Gebel et al., 2015). An example of biomechanics in action can be seen in the image where each of the three people are adjusting posture to account for an external force being placed on the body.  This requires individuals to adjust center of gravity (CG) and therefore alters muscular demands. Consider everyday situations where people adjust their posture to stay steady:

(a) A father carrying his son piggyback leans forward, ensuring their center of gravity remains above his feet.

(b) A student with a shoulder bag tilts to the side to keep their balance.

(c) A librarian juggling a stack of books leans back to steady herself.

In each case, these adjustments reveal the natural instinct we all have to adapt and thrive. Studying these biomechanics not only enhances athletic performance but also provides tools to help prevent injuries, enriching our understanding of movement in daily life.

Psychological Perspective

Kinesiology goes beyond just the physical; it also explores how movement influences our minds and emotions in profound ways. Exercise has a remarkable effect on mental health, significantly reducing anxiety and depression while boosting our overall mood (Mammen & Faulkner, 2013; Rebar et al., 2015). When we engage in physical activity, our bodies release endorphins—hormones often referred to as "feel-good" hormones. This natural chemical reaction is part of what leads to the post-exercise sensation known as the "runner's high."  The science behind this phenomenon lies in the way endorphins interact with the brain's opioid receptors, effectively diminishing pain perception and creating feelings of euphoria which leads to a decrease in depressive and anxiety symptoms (see Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\)).  As we push ourselves during a workout, whether it's a brisk run, a challenging weightlifting session, or a spirited dance class, our bodies respond by flooding our system with these endorphins, resulting in an uplifting rush that can linger long after we've finished exercising. This experience not only fosters positivity but also builds resilience against stress and emotional challenges.

Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): Flow chart demonstrating the link between beta-endorphins and depressive and anxiety symptoms. (Mahindru et al, 2023)

Research also demonstrates that physical activity is linked to improved cognitive function, sharpening our minds and enhancing memory and focus.  Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, stimulating the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which also play crucial roles in mood regulation.  One study by Pereira et al. (2007), researchers found that regular aerobic exercise significantly increased blood flow to the hippocampus, a region of the brain associated with memory and learning.  Additionaly, this increase in blood flow was linked to greater neurogenesis—the formation of new neurons—and enhanced neuroplasticity, promoting cognitive health and mental agility.  By promoting neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to adapt and form new connections—exercise supports mental agility and emotional stability. 

Sociocultural Perspective

The social dimension of kinesiology broadens the understanding of human movement by considering how societal, cultural, and environmental factors shape physical activity. Human movement does not occur in isolation; it is deeply influenced by the social context in which individuals live, work, and play.  It is important to note that the enabling or constraining factors in participation in physical activity include socioeconomic status, cultural norms, gender, race, and access to resources. This focus on the sociocultural context emphasizes the need for inclusivity and equitable access to physical activity opportunities for all people, regardless of their background.  Disparities in access to physical activity resources, such as safe environments for exercise, recreational facilities, and educational opportunities, are major concerns in the field. For example, people in low socioeconomic communities are less likely to have public parks, gyms, or other locations where one might go to exercise safely, thus contributing to lower participation rates in regular exercise. For example, studies highlight the fact that residents in more disadvantaged neighborhoods are less likely to display sufficient physical activity due to actual physical environmental barriers, such as lack of recreational space and/or safety concerns (Beenackers et al. 2012; van Lenthe et al., 2005) .  These inequalities not only affect physical health but also have long-term implications for mental and emotional well-being.

Kinesiology also examines the cultural influences that shape attitudes and behaviors related to physical activity. In some societies, physical activity may be highly valued and integrated into daily life, while in others, sedentary lifestyles may be more characteristic.  Social norms regarding gender and age will also play a significant role in determining who engages in physical activity and what form that activity takes. For example, gender role norms may discourage women from participating in specific forms of sport or physical activity, while ageist stereotypes may render routine exercise unavailable or unthinkable for older adults, even though physical activity has clear implications for sustaining longevity and quality of life.

While socioeconomic status statistically impacts opportunities for physical activity, there are plenty of stories of athletes who have overcome all odds to achieve greatness.  DeMar DeRozan’s journey to NBA stardom is a story of perseverance and triumph. Growing up in Compton, California—one of the nation’s most impoverished and gang-affiliated areas—DeRozan faced daunting challenges, including financial instability and exposure to violence. Despite the odds, his dedication to basketball and unwavering work ethic propelled him from local courts to the NBA, where he became a multiple-time All-Star and one of the league’s most respected players. DeRozan’s success not only reflects his incredible talent but also serves as an inspiring reminder that determination and resilience can defy even the harshest circumstances.

 

REFERENCES:

Beenackers, M. (2013). Physical activity: the interplay between individual and neighbourhood factors.

Gebel, K., Ding, D., Chey, T., Stamatakis, E., Brown, W. J., & Bauman, A. E. (2015). Effect of Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity on All-Cause Mortality in Middle-aged and Older Australians. JAMA internal medicine, 175(6), 970–977. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamainternmed.2015.0541

Haskell, W.L., Lee, I.M., Pate, R.R., et al. (2007) Physical activity and public health: Updated recommendation for adults from the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 39, 1423-1434.

Mahindru, A., Patil, P., & Agrawal, V. (2023). Role of Physical Activity on Mental Health and Well-Being: A Review. Cureus, 15(1), e33475. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.33475

Mammen, G. & Faulkner, G. (2013). Physical Activity and the Prevention of Depression A Systematic Review of Prospective Studies. American journal of preventive medicine. 45. 649-57. 

McGuine, T. A., Post, E. G., Hetzel, S. J., Brooks, M. A., Trigsted, S., & Bell, D. R. (2017). A Prospective Study on the Effect of Sport Specialization on Lower Extremity Injury Rates in High School Athletes. The American journal of sports medicine, 45(12), 2706–2712. https://doi.org/10.1177/0363546517710213

Pereira, A. C., Huddleston, D. E., Brickman, A. M., Sosunov, A. A., Hen, R., McKhann, G. M., Sloan, R., Gage, F. H., Brown, T. R., & Small, S. A. (2007). An in vivo correlate of exercise-induced neurogenesis in the adult dentate gyrus. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 104(13), 5638–5643. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.0611721104

Rebar, A. L., Stanton, R., Geard, D., Short, C., Duncan, M. J., & Vandelanotte, C. (2015). A meta-meta-analysis of the effect of physical activity on depression and anxiety in non-clinical adult populations. Health psychology review, 9(3), 366–378. https://doi.org/10.1080/17437199.2015.1022901

van Lenthe, F. J., Brug, J., & Mackenbach, J. P. (2005). Neighbourhood inequalities in physical inactivity: the role of neighbourhood attractiveness, proximity to local facilities and safety in the Netherlands. Social science & medicine (1982), 60(4), 763–775. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2004.06.013

Warburton, D.E., Nicol C.W., and Bredin, S.D. (2006) Health benefits of physical activity: the evidence. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 174, (6), 801-809. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.051351