Glossary

Karvonen formula—A mathematical calculation for determining target heart rates: [(220 – age) – (RHR) x (50-85%)] + RHR – THR.

Kegel exercises—Exercises for strengthening the pubococcygeus muscles; Kegel exercises can be especially beneficial for women in the childbearing years.

ketogenic diet—Low-carbohydrate diet designed to generate a state of ketosis.

ketone bodies—Molecules formed under conditions that increase fatty acid levels beyond that which the liver and muscles can utilize to generate energy or convert back into stored triglycerides. Under these conditions acetoacetate is formed, which may convert then convert into one of two other ketone bodies, 3-hydroxybutarate, or acetone. Ketone bodies are typically formed under conditions of glycogen depletion from low-carbohydrate diets or extreme exercise resulting in carbohydrate depletion.

ketone bodies—Formed when fatty acids are oxidized; A low CHO – high protein diet can result in ketosis, the formation of excessive ketone bodies.

ketosis—The accumulation of ketone bodies in the body, accompanied by a state of acidosis.

ketosis—A condition characterized by an abnormal increase of ketone bodies in the body; usually the result of a low-carbohydrate diet, fasting or starvation; see ketone bodies.

Kilocalorie—1,000 calories or a "Calorie" which is used as the standard for energy measurement in nutrition.

kinesiology—The study of human movement.

kinesthetic awareness—The ability of individuals to feel where their bodies are in relation to space; a body awareness.

knee wraps—Elastic strips used to wrap knees for better support when performing squats and dead lifts during extremely heavy lifts.

Korotkoff sounds—Five different sounds created by the pulsing of the blood through the brachial artery; Proper distinction of these sounds is necessary to determine blood pressure.

Krebs cycle—Cycle by which high energy intermediates are formed prior to generating ATP through the Electron Transport System.

kyphosis—Abnormal outward curvature of the upper back; Examples, hunchback or Dowager’s hump.

kyphosis-lordosis—An increase in the normal inward curve of the low back, combined with an increased outward curve of the thoracic spine.