Draft:Human Kinetics (publisher)

Human Kinetics
Founded1974; 50 years ago (1974)
Founder
  • Rainer Martens
  • Marilyn Martens
[1]
Country of originUnited States
Headquarters locationChampaign, Illinois, United States
Official websitewww.humankinetics.com

Human Kinetics, Inc. is an American publishing company that publishes fitness books. The company was founded in 1974 and is headquartered in Champaign, Illinois.

History

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Human Kinetics was founded in 1974 by Rainer Martens and Marilyn Martens. Rainer was a kinesiology professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Marilyn brought business acumen to the partnership. They initially started the company to publish Rainer's sport psychology materials, operating out of their basement. The husband-and-wife team worked together to grow the company, with Rainer focusing on the academic and content side while Marilyn managed the business operations.

Products and Services

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Human Kinetics publishes content in several key areas:

  • Textbooks for university courses in kinesiology, exercise science, physical education, and related fields
  • Professional reference books for researchers and practitioners
  • Consumer books on fitness, nutrition, and sports training
  • Academic and professional journals
  • Online courses and continuing education materials
  • Software and digital products

The company produces over 100 new titles annually and has a backlist of over 2,000 products. Some of its well-known book series include:

  • Complete Guides
  • Anatomy Series
  • Strength Training Series

Journals

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Human Kinetics also publishes several peer-reviewed journals, including:

  • Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology
  • Journal of Physical Activity and Health
  • International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism

International Presence

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While based in the United States, Human Kinetics has a global reach. The company has offices in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, and its products are distributed in over 100 countries. Many of its titles have been translated into multiple languages. Impact and Recognition Human Kinetics has played a significant role in disseminating research and best practices in physical activity and health sciences. Its publications are widely used in university programs and by professionals in fields such as coaching, athletic training, and fitness instruction. The company has received several publishing industry awards for its products.

References

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  1. ^ "About Human Kinetics". Human Kinetics. Retrieved 2024-03-03.


Category:Publishing companies established in the 1970s Category:Book publishing companies based in Illinois