What is an Exercise Physiologist?

An accredited exercise physiologist (AEP) is a university qualified allied health professional that specialises in evidence-based clinical exercise interventions for people with a variety of health issues (1). The aim of exercise physiology interventions is to prevent or manage acute, sub-acute or chronic illness, injury or disability to assist in restoring a person’s independence, optimal health and wellness. The interventions are exercise-based and include health advice, physical activity education and lifestyle modification with a strong focus on behaviour change (2). When it comes to the prescription of exercise, they are the most qualified professionals in Australia (3).

Exercise physiologists can be found in fitness centres, private clinics, public and private hospitals, aged care facilities, workplace rehabilitation and sports organisations. Some exercise physiologists also provide in-home services and telehealth for the less abled.

When should I see an Exercise Physiologist?

There are many reasons why a person can benefit from seeing an AEP. These include chronic disease management referrals following the diagnosis of a range of conditions including:

– Cardiovascular (coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, etc.)

– Pulmonary (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, etc.)

– Metabolic (diabetes, haemochromatosis, etc.)

– Neurological (spinal cord injury, stroke, etc.)

– Musculoskeletal disease (including arthritis, osteoporosis/osteopenia, acute or chronic musculoskeletal issues, etc.)

– Depression and other mental health conditions

– Cancer (2).

Accredited exercise physiologists may also assist with:

– Assessments of functional capacity.

– Falls prevention interventions.

– Advice on lifestyle modification to improve health status.

– Exercise prescriptions for strength and function improvement pre- and post-surgery.

– Workplace assessments and recovery following a workplace injury.

– Advice for athletes regarding sport specific demands and movement patterns (2).

How do I access Exercise Physiology services?

If you have a chronic or acute condition, it is advised you speak with your GP to organise a referral and find out if you are eligible to access any of the current compensable schemes. Otherwise, appointments can be made directly without a referral with the AEP of your choice.

References

1. Exercise & Sport Science Australia. What is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP)? [Internet]. [cited 2023 May 18]. Available from: https://www.essa.org.au/Public/Consumer_Information/What_is_an_Accredited_Exercise_Physiologist_.aspx

2. Allied Health Professions Australia. Exercise Physiology [Internet]. [cited 2023 May 18]. Available from: https://ahpa.com.au/allied-health-professions/exercise-physiology/

3. ESSA: Exercise Right. What Is An Accredited Exercise Physiologist? [Internet]. [cited 2023 May 18]. Available from: https://exerciseright.com.au/what-is-an-accredited-exercise-physiologist/