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What is Applied Kinesiology?

A non-invasive assessment tool used alongside nutrition coaching and functional blood analysis.

Applied Kinesiology (AK) is a system that uses manual muscle testing as a feedback mechanism to help evaluate aspects of the body’s structural, chemical, and neurological function. It was developed in the 1960s by chiropractor Dr. George Goodheart and is taught through the International College of Applied Kinesiology (ICAK).

In practice, a practitioner gently tests the relative strength or weakness of specific muscles. Changes in muscle response are used as one piece of information—alongside health history, symptoms, and laboratory findings—to help identify possible stressors, imbalances, or areas that may benefit from support.

How it is used at Next Step Nutrition

  • As a complementary assessment tool during sessions
  • To help explore possible food sensitivities or stressors
  • To support decisions about nutritional and lifestyle recommendations
  • In combination with functional blood analysis and detailed history for a more complete picture
INTERACTIVE

Muscle Regions Commonly Assessed

Hover or tap a highlighted region to learn which areas are frequently evaluated during Applied Kinesiology sessions. These are educational illustrations only.

Hover a region

Select a muscle area

Move your mouse (or tap on mobile) over the green highlighted regions on the body diagram to see information about muscles commonly assessed in Applied Kinesiology.

Note: These diagrams are simplified educational illustrations. Applied Kinesiology muscle testing is performed hands-on by a trained practitioner and is interpreted in the context of the full clinical picture.

Important notes