Kroppsbruk

Kroppsbruk is a Norwegian term that translates roughly to 'body use' and describes how the body is employed to perform tasks, move, and maintain posture. In practical terms, it covers posture, movement efficiency, muscle activation, and joint alignment in everyday activities as well as in exercise and work tasks. The concept is used in fields such as ergonomics, sports science, rehabilitation, and health education to reduce injury risk and improve performance.

In workplaces, kroppsbruk is linked to safe lifting techniques, task design, and tools or equipment that minimize awkward postures and repetitive strain. In sports and exercise, it relates to movement technique, energy efficiency, and injury prevention through proper sequencing of motions and core stability. In rehabilitation and physical therapy, retraining functional movement after illness or injury falls under kroppsbruk, with emphasis on correct patterns of use and gradual loading.

Assessment methods include observation, biomechanical analysis, and sometimes motion capture or force measurement to identify inefficient or unsafe movement. Interventions may combine education on posture and technique, targeted strength and flexibility training, ergonomic adjustments at work, and the use of assistive devices such as supports or height-adjustable workstations.

While the term is used in Scandinavia to refer to body use in a broad sense, its exact meaning can vary by context. It overlaps with disciplines such as biomechanics, ergonomics, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy, and is not always a standardized field in itself. Nonetheless, clarifying kroppsbruk aims to promote safe, efficient, and sustainable use of the body in daily life and work.