In Canada, legislation pertaining to the profession falls under provincial jurisdiction. The goal of the Canadian Kinesiology Alliance (CKA) is to promote kinesiology and harmonize the rules and standards of practice of kinesiology across Canada. As a national organization, the CKA has collaborated and established relationships with the various provincial associations across Canada. It ensures that the practice of kinesiology evolves at the same pace from one ocean to another. In addition, it ensures that the level of knowledge, training and professional practice remain on the cutting edge of scientific research.

With the exception of the province of Ontario, the CKA and its affiliated provincial kinesiology associations partners are the only official and relevant reference bodies with respect to the standards of practice and the requirements of the profession. Since 2013, the profession of kinesiology in Ontario has been a legislated health profession with the creation of the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario (CKO). Requests for formal recognition of the profession have been made in several provinces and work is proceeding with the relevant authorities. We are optimistic of a successful outcome. Until then, the CKA and its recognized provincial partners (PKAs) are the only official associations that maintain, and advocate for, the standards of kinesiology practice and the requirements of the profession.

Already the CKA and PKAs grant many important privileges to our members. For instance, in the vast majority of Canada, only kinesiologists “in good standing” with their associations are allowed to issue receipts (for the reimbursement of professional services) to Canadian insurers. The wrongful use of the title ‘Kinesiologist’ and certain established rules could lead to criminal prosecution.

To be in good standing, a Kinesiologist must:

• Be a member of their provincial association as well as the CKA;
• Meet their specific provincial requirements (for example meet the requirements of CKO if applicable);
• Possess a professional liability insurance policy and general insurance policy;
• Meet the standards and skills expected of the profession and pass a professional assessment (if applicable);
• Respect a code of ethics;
• Comply with the minimum continuing education standards (variable by province).

Finally, the CKA also aims to defend the interests of the profession at the national level and is committed to promoting awareness of the profession in Canada. In summary, CKA is the strong and united voice for Kinesiology across Canada.

By becoming a member of a provincial association affiliated with the CKA, you can benefit from the following:

• Membership in a professional community with similar interests, and a desire to advance the profession and gain recognition for kinesiology;
• Shared values of ethical professional practice;
• Mass marketing using innovative technologies;
• Access to a wide range of promotional material, scientific articles, relevant publications as well as custom event material;
• The ability to express your opinions, your expectations, your vision, your wishes as well as exercise your right to democracy by participating in various forums or at the Annual General Meeting;
• Participate in committees that promote kinesiology;
• Benefit from preferential rates such as professional insurance products targeted specifically for our profession (errors and omissions, commercial liability, etc.), and offers of continuing education (webinars, conferences, forums, printed resources) and more.

Visit section Who’s who for more information.