According to the Biokinetics SA

BIO + KINETICS = LIFE + MOVEMENT = LIFE THROUGH MOVEMENT

The Science of Movement and the application of exercise in rehabilitative treatment of performance.

Biokinetics’ primary function is to improve physical functioning and health care through exercise as a modality.

Biokinetics is the profession concerned with health promotion, the maintenance of physical abilities and final phase rehabilitation, by means of scientifically-based physical activity programme prescription.

No, you can contact AV Biokineticist without a referral.

NO, NON MEMBERS are welcome for 18 sessions

On the website, you will find our contact details and email addresses.

Yes, AV Biokineticist are contracted into most medical aids, which means we can claim on your behalf.

Yes, if you have a specific injury or condition, most medical aids will cover our treatment. AV Biokineticist are contracted into most medical aids, which means we can claim on your behalf.

Biokinetics is a specialised healthcare profession that focuses on using exercise and physical activity to promote health, prevent injuries, and rehabilitate individuals with various medical conditions or injuries. Biokineticists are qualified professionals who assess, prescribe, and supervise exercise programs tailored to each individual’s needs and goals.

Here are the critical differences between biokinetics, physiotherapy, and personal training:

1. Biokinetics:

• Biokinetics primarily uses exercise as a therapeutic tool to improve and maintain physical function and overall health.
• Biokineticists work with individuals who have various medical conditions, chronic diseases, injuries, or disabilities, as well as those seeking to enhance athletic performance.
• The focus of biokinetics is on rehabilitation, functional movement, and overall health and wellness through exercise.
• Biokineticists undergo specific training in human anatomy, biomechanics, exercise prescription, and clinical exercise science.

2. Physiotherapy (Physical Therapy):

• Physiotherapy aims to diagnose, assess, and treat a wide range of physical conditions, injuries, and diseases through manual therapy, modalities, and exercise.
• Physiotherapists use various techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and therapeutic modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation.
• The focus of physiotherapy is on restoring mobility, reducing pain, and improving function through a combination of manual therapy and therapeutic exercises.
• Physiotherapists are trained in anatomy, biomechanics, and rehabilitation techniques.

3. Personal Training:

• Personal training involves working with individuals to design and implement exercise programs that suit their fitness goals and preferences.
• Personal trainers typically work with healthy individuals or those looking to improve their fitness levels, lose weight, gain muscle, or enhance athletic performance.
• The primary focus of personal training is on fitness improvement and reaching specific fitness goals.
• Personal trainers are knowledgeable about exercise programming and fitness principles but may not have the same medical training as biokinetics or physiotherapists.

In summary, biokinetics focuses on using exercise as a therapeutic tool for rehabilitation and overall health, whereas physiotherapy utilises manual therapy and other modalities in addition to exercise. On the other hand, personal training concentrates on improving fitness and reaching fitness goals for healthy individuals. Each discipline plays a crucial role in promoting physical well-being, but their approach and scope of practice differ.

Biokinetics can provide valuable assistance and support for individuals with specific conditions or injuries by utilising exercise as a therapeutic intervention. Here’s how biokinetics can help you:

1. Personalised Assessment: Biokineticists will conduct a thorough assessment of your condition or injury, taking into account your medical history, physical limitations, and functional abilities. This assessment helps them gain a comprehensive understanding of your unique needs.

2. Customised Exercise Programs: Based on the assessment, biokinetics will design personalised exercise programs tailored to your specific condition or injury. These programs are carefully crafted to promote healing, improve function, and enhance physical well-being.

3. Rehabilitation: Biokineticists specialise in rehabilitating individuals who have experienced injuries or undergone surgical procedures. Through targeted exercises, they can aid in the recovery process, helping to restore mobility, strength, and functionality.

4. Pain Management: Biokinetic exercise programs can play a significant role in managing pain associated with various conditions. They focus on strengthening supporting muscles, improving joint stability, and promoting proper movement patterns to alleviate discomfort.

5. Chronic Disease Management: Biokinetics can be beneficial for individuals living with chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and respiratory disorders. The exercise programs aim to improve cardiovascular fitness, manage symptoms, and enhance overall health and well-being.

6. Sports Injuries: For athletes, biokinetics can be instrumental in recovering from sports-related injuries and preventing future ones. The exercise programs facilitate a safe and efficient return to sports activities while reducing re-injury risk.

7. Postural Correction: Biokineticists can help correct postural imbalances and poor movement patterns, possibly contributing to pain and dysfunction. They focus on improving posture and body mechanics to reduce strain on muscles and joints.

8. Flexibility and Mobility: Biokinetic exercises often incorporate stretching and mobility work to improve flexibility and range of motion. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with stiff joints or limited movement.

9. Functional Training: Biokineticists strongly emphasise functional training, which involves exercises that mimic activities of daily living or sports-specific movements. This approach helps you regain practical skills and perform better in your daily activities or chosen sports.

10. Education and Empowerment: Beyond providing exercise programs, biokinetics educate clients on their conditions and how they can actively participate in their recovery and well-being. They empower individuals to take control of their health through lifestyle modifications and adherence to prescribed exercises.

By working with a biokineticist, you can benefit from their human movement, exercise prescription, and rehabilitation expertise to improve your quality of life, enhance physical performance, and achieve your health goals.

The frequency of biokinetic sessions can vary depending on several factors, including your specific condition, injury, fitness goals, and the recommendations of AV Biokineticist. Generally, the initial assessment and consultation will help determine the appropriate session frequency for your individual needs. However, here are some general guidelines:

1. Rehabilitation: If you are recovering from an injury, surgery, or managing a chronic condition, your biokineticist may recommend more frequent sessions initially to establish a solid foundation for your rehabilitation. This could involve attending sessions two to three times per week or as advised.

2. Maintenance and Prevention: Once you have made progress in your rehabilitation and are on the path to recovery, the frequency of sessions may decrease. At this stage, your biokineticist may suggest attending sessions once a week or every two weeks to maintain your gains and prevent future issues.

3. Sports Performance and Training: If you are working with a biokineticist to enhance sports performance or improve your fitness level, the session frequency may vary depending on your goals, training schedule, and your body’s response to the exercises. Attending sessions one to three times per week in this scenario is common.

4. Lifestyle and General Fitness: For individuals seeking to improve overall health and fitness, a biokineticist might recommend attending sessions once or twice a week initially, gradually tapering down as you become more comfortable with your exercise routine.

5. Home Exercise Programs: Besides attending sessions at the biokineticist’s clinic, you may be prescribed a home exercise program to perform between sessions. Consistently following this program is essential for maximising the benefits of the treatment.

Please remember that everyone’s needs and progress are unique, so discussing session frequency with your biokineticist is essential to create a personalised plan that aligns with your goals and circumstances. Regular communication with your biokineticist will allow adjustments based on your progress, ensuring that you continue to make positive strides toward optimal health and well-being.

Tracking progress is an essential aspect of any rehabilitation or training program. Here are some indicators that can help you determine if you’re making progress:

1. Improved Function: In rehabilitation, progress may be evident through improved functional abilities. For example, if you were experiencing difficulty walking or performing specific movements due to an injury, you may notice an increase in your ability to walk longer distances or perform those movements with less pain and discomfort.

2. Increased Strength and Endurance: If your biokineticist has designed a strength training program, progress can be seen through increased strength and endurance levels. You might be able to lift heavier weights, perform more repetitions, or sustain exercises for longer durations.

3. Reduced Pain or Discomfort: As you progress in your rehabilitation, you may experience a reduction in pain or discomfort associated with your injury or condition. This improvement in pain management is an excellent indicator of progress.

4. Improved Range of Motion: If you were experiencing a limited range of motion in a joint or muscle group, progress can be seen through an increase in your range of motion. You may find it easier to move the affected area with greater flexibility.

5. Enhanced Sports Performance: For those engaged in sports training, progress can be measured by improvements in performance metrics such as speed, agility, power, and accuracy. You may also notice enhanced skills and techniques in your chosen sport.

6. Better Balance and Coordination: Progress in rehabilitation can improve balance and coordination, which can be particularly crucial for individuals recovering from injuries or neurological conditions.

7. Achieving Goals: If you had specific goals set with your biokineticist, such as returning to a certain activity level or improving functional abilities, reaching those goals is a clear sign of progress.

8. Objective Measurements: Biokineticists often use accurate measurements, such as range of motion assessments, strength tests, and functional assessments, to track progress. Comparing these measurements over time can help gauge your improvement.

9. Positive Feedback: Your biokineticist may provide feedback on your progress based on their observations and professional assessments. They can offer insights into the changes they’ve noticed and discuss your advancements.

Communicating openly with your biokineticist at AV Biokineticist about any changes or improvements you notice is essential. Regular follow-ups and reassessments with your biokineticist can help ensure your program is appropriately adjusted to keep you on track to achieve your goals. Remember that progress may not always be linear, and some days might be more challenging than others. Still, consistent effort and dedication to your program will lead to positive outcomes over time.