What is a biokineticist, and when should you see one?

“So what exactly is a biokineticist?” is the question we hear most often, usually followed by “is that like a physio?” Here’s the short answer, and a few signs that it might be time to see one.

Exercise, prescribed like medicine

A biokineticist is a health professional who uses scientifically based exercise to improve how your body works. In South Africa we complete a four-year degree plus an internship, and we are registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

We assess how you move, how strong and mobile you are, and what your health history means for exercise. Then we build a programme with the right exercises, at the right dose, progressed at the right pace, and we keep measuring as you go.

How is that different from a physio or a personal trainer?

• Physiotherapists are often the first step after an injury or surgery. They focus on reducing pain, restoring early movement and hands-on treatment.
• Biokineticists usually pick up from there: we rebuild strength, control and fitness so you get back to full function, and stay there. We also work with chronic conditions where exercise is part of the treatment.
• Personal trainers help healthy people get fitter. When there is an injury, a medical condition or pain in the picture, that is where a clinical professional comes in.

The best results often come from teamwork, which is why we work closely with doctors, physios and specialists.

When it makes sense to see one

• You’ve finished physio, but don’t feel back to normal. Your knee, shoulder or back no longer hurts at rest, but you still don’t trust it on the stairs, the field or the court.
• You’re living with a chronic condition. Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart conditions and arthritis all respond well to the right exercise, but “just do more exercise” is not a plan.
• You keep getting the same niggle. Recurring injuries often come from how you move, not bad luck. A movement assessment can find the weak link.
• You want to perform better in your sport. Screening and a tailored programme can make you stronger, faster and more resilient, from junior water polo to international rugby.
• Posture or desk life is catching up with you. Neck, shoulder and lower back aches from long days sitting can often be improved with targeted exercise.

What to expect at your first visit

Your first consultation is an assessment, not a workout. We’ll talk through your history and goals, test how you move, and explain what we find in plain language. You leave with a clear plan, and the next sessions put it into action.

You don’t always need a referral to see a biokineticist, though some medical aids ask for one, so it’s worth checking your plan.

If any of the above sounds familiar, we’d love to help you move better.