Human Kinetics, founded in 1974 by Rainer and Marilyn Martens, is the largest independent publisher focused on sport, health, dance, fitness, physical education, and recreation resources. Based in Champaign, Illinois, the company aims to enhance knowledge, performance, and health globally by providing authoritative information on physical activity and sport.
The company operates through three main divisions: the Academic Division, which produces textbooks and educational programs; the Journals Division, which publishes scholarly journals on physical activity and health; and the Trade and Professional Division, offering consumer books, online courses, and digital products for fitness professionals and educators. Human Kinetics serves a diverse customer base, including college students, coaches, athletes, and health professionals, and has evolved to include video and online education products alongside traditional print materials. With around 200 employees, the company has grown significantly and is committed to employee involvement through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan.
Human Kinetics, founded in 1974 by Rainer and Marilyn Martens, is the largest independent publisher focused on sport, health, dance, fitness, physical education, and recreation resources. Based in Champaign, Illinois, the company aims to enhance knowledge, performance, and health globally by providing authoritative information on physical activity and sport.
The company operates through three main divisions: the Academic Division, which produces textbooks and educational programs; the Journals Division, which publishes scholarly journals on physical activity and health; and the Trade and Professional Division, offering consumer books, online courses, and digital products for fitness professionals and educators. Human Kinetics serves a diverse customer base, including college students, coaches, athletes, and health professionals, and has evolved to include video and online education products alongside traditional print materials. With around 200 employees, the company has grown significantly and is committed to employee involvement through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan.