Department of Human Kinetics / Kinesiology

Students work together on proper body movements in the gymnasium

Experienced instructors in the Department of Human Kinetics / Kinesiology focus on supporting student development of applied skills for athletic performance, fitness leadership and community health promotion so that students can solve complex personal and social problems connected to physical activity and inactivity.

Program spotlight

Kinesiology, the science of human movement, serves as the core of the two-year diploma program, offered at the Okanagan College Penticton campus.

Meet a faculty member

Louise Blais advises students to "Be open to learning. Be open to being wrong and changing your mind."

Meet a student

 Ty Sideroff wasn't sure what he wanted to do after high school, but decided to follow his interest in the human body and how it works.

Courses

Human Kinetics and Kinesiology coursework includes introductory human anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics and motor learning. 

Instructors

Louise Blais

Chair - Human Kinetics / Kinesiology
Office: Centre of Excellence 236
Campus: Penticton
Phone: 250-492-4305 ext. 3258
Headshot of Louise Blais

A Health Science graduate, my research interest is in studying sustainable behaviour change with regard to physical activity. I also have extensive experience working in the fitness industry certifying, mentoring and managing fitness professionals. This combination aligns to prepare the students to become the leaders in health and fitness required to regain the health of Canadians. I am also an avid cyclist and am actively involved in our local cycling community as the founder and head coach of She Rides Penticton, a board member of the Summerland Mountain Bike Association, and an advocate for cycling infrastructure in the Okanagan.

Credentials:
MA, Applied Health Science, Brock University

Wendy Wheeler

Associate Dean - HSD Dean's Office
Office: Lab Building 245
Campus: Kelowna
Phone: 250-492-4305 ext. 3265

Dr. Colin Wallace

Human Kinetics / Kinesiology
Office: Centre of Excellence 236
Campus: Penticton
Phone: 250-492-4305 ext. 3334

I am a certified athletic therapist and obtained my PhD in neuroscience with a research interest in concussion. I am currently finishing up the final requirements for the CSEP Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification, allowing me to perform assessments, prescribe conditioning exercise as well as exercise supervision, counseling and healthy lifestyle education. I focus on the physiological mechanisms that underlie both optimal sport performance and recovery from injury. The classroom environment allows me to engage with students and highlight the importance of understanding these physiological systems and how to apply this knowledge in their professional practice.

Credentials:
PhD, CAT(C)

Experience

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