A kinesiologist studies muscle movement to help prevent, manage, and rehabilitate muscle issues for improved movement and elimination of pain. They can provide invaluable insight to other medical specialists, such as orthopedic surgeons. In the US, kinesiologists earn nearly $76,000 per year compared to more than C$82,000 ($65,085 USD) annually in Canada and £52,000 ($60,544 USD) per year in the UK. Annual earnings for kinesiologists in Australia average just under AU$119,000 ($91,147 USD) compared to about NZ$100,000 ($69,452 USD) in New Zealand. On the lower end of the pay scale for kinesiologists are South Africa at roughly R213,000 ($14,962 USD) and India at Rs233,000 ($3,581 USD). Salaries vary worldwide by geographic region, work experience, and work setting as further explained in this guide.
How Much Does a Kinesiologist Make per Year?
The chart below provides annual and hourly wages for kinesiologists worldwide.
| Kinesiologist Salary | US | Canada | UK | Australia | New Zealand | India | South Africa |
| Hourly Wage | $36 | C$40 | £25 | AU$57 | NZ$48 | Rs112 | R103 |
| Annual Wage | $75,727 | C$82,490 ($65,085 USD) |
£52,003 ($60,544 USD) |
AU$118,898 ($91,147 USD) |
NZ$99,874 ($69,452 USD) |
Rs233,083 ($3,581 USD) |
R213,258 ($14,962 USD) |
Factors that Influence the Kinesiologist Salary
Data shows salary variances for kinesiologists based on geographic region, years of professional work experience, and work setting. This guide includes information on earning potential and a career in kinesiology.
1. Geographic Area
Kinesiologist Salary in US
In the US, kinesiologists earn just under $76,000 annually, plus another $1,200 or more in bonus income potential. Hourly wage earners receive about $36 per hour. As an entry level kinesiologist, annual pay is about $62,000, while senior level earnings are well over $99,000 annually.
Kinesiologist Salary in Canada
Kinesiologists in Canada see annual earnings in excess of C$82,000, or C$40 per hour. Another C$1,300 in bonus pay is possible. Entry level kinesiologists earn an average starting salary of more than C$67,000 per year, increasing to more than C$108,000 annually for those at the senior level.
Kinesiologist Salary in UK
As a kinesiologist in the UK, average earnings range from more than £42,000 per year when beginning a career to well over £68,000 annually for a senior level position. For all experience levels, the average annual salary is about £52,000, or £25 per hour, plus another £800 or more in bonus income.
Kinesiologist Salary in Australia
In Australia, the average annual compensation for kinesiologists is about AU$119,000, or AU$57 per hour, with another AU$2,000 possible in bonus income pay. When beginning their careers, entry level kinesiologists earn an average annual starting salary of about AU$97,000 while those at the senior level see annual pay that tops AU$156,000 annually.
Kinesiologist Salary in New Zealand
Kinesiologists in New Zealand earn roughly NZ$100,000 annually, equivalent to about NZ$48 per hour. Bonus income potential can exceed NZ$1,500 in additional pay. Entry level pay averages over NZ$81,000 annually while senior level earning potential tops NZ$131,000 annually.
Kinesiologist Salary in India
In India, kinesiologists earn between Rs193,000 in entry level positions and Rs311,000 upon reaching senior level positions. Annual income for all experience levels average Rs233,000, while hourly wage earners receive about Rs112 per hour. Bonus income potential can exceed Rs3,700 in additional pay.
Kinesiologist Salary in South Africa
The average annual compensation for kinesiologists in South Africa is more than R213,000 plus an additional R3,400 or more in bonus income potential. If paid an hourly wage, kinesiologists earn R103 per hour. Entry level pay averages R175,000 annually while senior level can reach R283,000 per year.
2. Experience
Experience in the field of kinesiology potentially adds between 59% and 62% to average annual earnings. In the US, where annual salaries are among the highest, senior level pay is roughly 59% more per year, equating to about $37,000 more per year, over entry level salaries. South Africa offers a lower salary range for kinesiologists, and average annual salaries for kinesiologists are about R108,000 more per year, or 62%, compared to entry level incomes. While salaries in New Zealand and the UK are higher, salary growth is also 62% in these countries.
3. Industry
Kinesiologists work in hospitals, fitness centers, athletic teams, and school physical education departments. Some also are employed as educators training future kinesiologists and some work in research. Those working in nonprofit, public sector organizations, such as schools, may see lower earning potential and fewer opportunities for bonus income compared to for-profit, public organizations. Some kinesiologists also establish a clientele and may branch out to become self-employed, offering a holistic approach prevention and treatment of muscular issues.
Working Hours
Kinesiologists often work full-time hours, although some choose part-time employment. Work schedules vary by work setting. For example, those employed in schools may begin their day slightly earlier than typical business hours, but end the work day earlier and enjoy the breaks observed by the school. Employment in fitness centers may involve work during evenings and weekends to meet client availability. Those self-employed may see patients during normal work hours Monday through Friday with some extended hours or weekend times offered.
Bonuses and Benefit Packages
Kinesiologists may receive additional pay through bonus income incentives, although these opportunities may be more often seen by full-time employees working in the private, for-profit sector. Benefits packages typically include paid time off and healthcare coverage, while some employers may offer additional perks like fitness club memberships, meal allowances, and training seminars.
Job Outlook
As more people seek natural and holistic treatments, the field of kinesiology is expected to increase. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics states that a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology is required, although those working in research need a master’s degree, which may also make one more competitive for employment. Some positions may require successful completion of a licensing exam and registration with the American Kinesiotherapy Association.
Conclusion
Kinesiologists earn slightly less incomes compared to some other positions in the therapy role; however, the level of education and training required are somewhat less intensive. In addition to solid salaries, kinesiologists earn a full range of bonus and benefit packages. Future employment is expected to remain positive, providing employment opportunities for those choosing to enter this career field.
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