I am a biokineticist and completed Honours in Biokinetics at Northwest University in 2005.  Tennis has played a major role in my life: as a junior I was ranked 30 on the International Tennis Federation (I.T.F) World ranking list (under 18) and won several international tennis tournaments, such as Singapore and Israel.  On the International Women’s circuit (WTA) I progressed to no 250 in the world.  In 2002 I accepted a tennis scholarship at Potchefstroom University where I was selected for the South African University team during every year of my studies.

My tennis career has instilled a passion in me to help athletes further their career by means of a purpose-driven program, training that prevents injuries, a focus on developing each player’s endurance, power, flexibility and balanced muscle development.  I firmly believe that new technology is an invaluable aid in developing personalized training programs.  I pursue quality in preference to quantity in order to achieve success.

Function of a Biokineticist
A Biokineticist is an exercise specialist who focuses not only on the prevention of injuries but also on the rehabilitation of sport and other injuries

An evaluation session
This comprises a comprehensive medical history, posture analysis, fat percentage test, flexibility test, muscle testing ( power and assessment of the balance between muscle groups.  The muscle testing is done on the Humac Norm (Cybex)

Benefits of the Humac-Norm
Traditional methods of training have not focused on balancing muscle groups in every position. With Isokinetic testing and exercising maximum resistance is allowed throughout the whole movement of the muscle.  Excellent results may be expected with regard to muscle imbalances, as the Humac Norm indicates the degree of the imbalance as well as the angle at which the strengthening exercises should be done.

Does my Medical Aid pay for the tests and exercise sessions
Yes- Medical Aid tariffs are charged.  Packages are available for groups and teams.  There are specific ‘Comrades’, ‘Two Oceans’ and ‘Argus’ packages available.

Which other services does a Biokineticist offer?

• Postural assessment and correction
• Biomechanical analysis of movement
• Running analysis
• Rehabilitation of acute/chronic injuries and burn-out
• Rehabilitation before and after operations
• Management of chronic diseases
• Sports specific gym and fitness programmes
• Testing of specific muscle strength and flexibility
• Fitness tests
• Pilates classes that focus on the core muscles and toning.
• Discovery fitness assessments
• Weight loss/toning programmes
• Nutritional and supplement advice
• Massage sessions
• Physio-plate sessions

Lara van Rooyen Biokinetics
Cell: 084 550 6011
Venue: Johan van Rooyen Hipermart Centre (Opposite Westgate)
139 Ontdekkers Road
Helderkruin, Roodepoort