  Results from kinematic observations of the central regions of spiral galaxies
are reviewed, with particular emphasis on starburst and AGN hosts. While
morphological studies lead to important insight, a more complete understanding
of the physical processes that drive the evolution of the central regions can
be achieved with measurements of the kinematics of gas and stars. Here, a
variety of observational techniques at different wavelengths is critically
discussed, and specific areas of interest are highlighted, such as inflow in
barred galaxies and the origin of nuclear spiral arms. A brief discussion of a
number of case studies is presented to illustrate recent progress.
