If you’re a student-athlete or student-performer, you likely possess strong kinesthetic intelligence—an aptitude for learning and performing through physical movement, action, and hands-on activities.
This form of intelligence isn’t just for athletes and dancers; it’s also found in professionals like surgeons, mechanics, inventors, and craftsmen.
Harnessing your kinesthetic strengths and applying them to your academic life can make you a more effective learner.
This guide will help you balance your athletic, academic, and personal life through time management and specific learning strategies.
What is kinesthetic intelligence?
Kinesthetic intelligence, also known as “body smarts,” refers to the ability to control body movements and handle physical objects skillfully. People with kinesthetic intelligence often:
- Excel at physical activities, such as sports or dance.
- Have well-developed motor skills and physical memory.
- Learn best through hands-on activities and physical engagement.
- Use their body as a tool for communication and learning.
Kinesthetic intelligence is also found in professions like:
- Inventors, lab technicians, and architects.
- Physical therapists, chiropractors, surgeons, and dentists.
- Actors, sculptors, jewelers, and gardeners.
- Mechanical, construction, and craft workers.
Time management for kinesthetic learners
Time management is critical for student-athletes and performers who need to balance physical training with academic responsibilities. Just as you wouldn’t prepare for an event without a training schedule, you shouldn’t approach academics without a clear, balanced plan.
Complete a time management exercise to create a daily or weekly schedule that accounts for both academic and athletic commitments. Below is a table to help you visualize how to balance different aspects of your life:
| Life Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Academic Life | Schedule study times, attend classes, complete assignments. |
| Athletic Life | Block out time for practice, games, and athletic training sessions. |
| Social Life | Include time for friends and relaxation to maintain balance. |
| Family Life | Dedicate time for family commitments and responsibilities. |
| Work Life | If you have a job, schedule shifts and factor them into your weekly plan. |
Developing routines for academic success
To succeed academically as a kinesthetic learner, it’s important to develop structured routines and habits that allow you to engage with learning materials physically and mentally.
Strategies for kinesthetic learners:
- Create a study routine:
- Schedule regular study times, and begin with easier material to build confidence before tackling more challenging subjects.
- Simplify instructions:
- Break down complex tasks into simple steps and build from there.
- Engage with material:
- Practice by repeating tasks or engaging physically with the subject matter. This strengthens recall and understanding.
- Hands-on learning:
- Use physical objects, models, or real-world examples to understand concepts better. For example, use a globe in geography or a scale model in science.
- Use multiple senses:
- Involve all your senses by touching, moving, building, or acting out ideas to fully engage with the learning material.
- Trial and error:
- Jump in and try things out—learn through doing. Mistakes are part of the process for kinesthetic learners.
- Seek demonstrations:
- If you don’t understand a concept, ask your teacher for a demonstration or a real-life example.
- Find hands-on classes:
- Enroll in courses with labs, field trips, or practical components where you can apply your learning.
Technology and kinesthetic learning
Technology can be a powerful tool for kinesthetic learners, especially when it comes to interacting with the material. Use multi-media resources to take advantage of your natural hand-eye coordination.
Technology tips:
- Multimedia learning:
- Use videos, simulations, or educational games to understand complex systems. For example, use a chemistry simulation to visualize reactions.
- Computer simulations:
- Simulate real-world scenarios through interactive software. This allows you to experiment with different outcomes and gain a better understanding of the material.
- Educational games:
- Educational video games can help you see “the big picture” and experiment with different concepts in a fun, interactive way.
Preparing for exams
As a kinesthetic learner, preparing for exams should involve active engagement and practical application of the material. Consider using the following strategies:
- Write practice questions:
- Create practice questions and compare answers with classmates or a tutor. Writing them out reinforces your learning.
- Role-play the exam:
- Act out the exam situation by answering questions as if you were in the test. This practice can reduce anxiety and help you recall information.
- Ask for alternative assessments:
- If possible, request alternative exam formats. For example, see if you can build a model, create a presentation, or engage in a hands-on project instead of taking a traditional written test.
The role of the coach: Academic support
Just as you rely on a coach for athletic training, you can benefit from having an academic coach to guide your studies. An academic counselor, teacher, or tutor can provide the encouragement and direction needed to succeed in your coursework.
What an academic coach can offer:
- Motivation and accountability:
- A coach can help keep you motivated, monitor your progress, and hold you accountable for your academic performance.
- Resource support:
- Coaches often provide resources for general wellness, study strategies, and time management.
- Goal setting:
- An academic coach helps you set performance and mastery-oriented goals that align with your kinesthetic learning style.
FAQ
1. How can I balance academic life with training or performing?
Create a detailed weekly schedule that includes specific blocks of time for academics, athletic training, and rest. Use your kinesthetic strengths to engage with learning actively during study sessions.
2. What if I find it hard to sit still while studying?
Break study sessions into shorter time blocks (like the Pomodoro Technique), and incorporate movement into your learning. For example, use a standing desk or take breaks where you physically engage with the material by pacing or using gestures.
3. How can I apply my athletic discipline to studying?
Approach your studies like training. Develop a structured routine, practice consistently, and focus on incremental improvement. Just as you would train for a performance or game, break academic tasks into manageable parts and practice regularly.
4. Can I use physical activity to help with learning?
Yes! Many kinesthetic learners benefit from using physical activity to reinforce learning. For example, while studying, you can walk around, act out concepts, or use objects to visualize ideas.
5. How can I make technology work for me as a kinesthetic learner?
Leverage multimedia tools like simulations, educational games, and video tutorials to engage with concepts physically and visually. Try using apps that let you manipulate objects or solve puzzles, which cater to your natural strengths.
Conclusion
As a kinesthetic learner, your strengths in physical activity, motor skills, and hands-on learning can be powerful assets in both athletic and academic life.
By incorporating structured routines, hands-on engagement, and time management practices, you can excel in both areas.
Remember, just as a successful athlete or performer needs a training schedule, you need an academic plan that fits your learning style.
With the right strategies, balance, and support, you can thrive as both a student and a performer.