What is Exercise Physiology?

The Exercise Physiology profession is an Allied Health Service, from which everyone benefits greatly.

Accredited Exercise Physiologists hold a four-year university degree and are allied health professionals who specialise in the delivery of exercise for the prevention and management of chronic diseases and injuries. Different to personal trainers, Accredited Exercise Physiologists are eligible to register with Medicare Australia, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and WorkCover and are recognised by most private health insurers.

In contrast to the Physiotherapist who deals with the management of acute injuries and pain predominantly musculoskeletal in nature, the Exercise Physiology profession focuses on the development and implementation of exercises. Exercises are used as therapy to treat chronic and complex conditions based on scientific evidence and medical research. These exercises are individually tailored to the patient in terms of exercise type, intensity, duration and frequency, and also cater for patients with special needs. The Exercise Physiologist uses exercise prescription to prevent or manage musculoskeletal injuries, chronic diseases and to maintain or improve the level of function/mobility. Exercise Physiologists are ideally suited to providing professional service for physical rehabilitation, as a strategy for disease prevention and as part of a plan to establish and sustain functional independence.