Many people wonder what Exercise Physiology is, and what an Exercise Physiologist does!

Simply put, an Exercise Physiologist (or EP) is an Allied Health Professional who uses exercise as medicine.

Just imagine if there was a pill that could do all these incredible things,

• Improve energy and health

• Lower blood pressure, blood sugars and cholesterol

• Improve joint function

• Improve strength, fitness, and physical capacity

• Reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression

Unfortunately, such a pill does not exist, but all these incredible outcomes can be achieved simply through doing exercise.

With the prevalence of chronic disease and disability increasing over time as our lives become more automated and require less physical exertion, an intervention that can achieve these benefits is becoming more and more important

An EP is a tertiary qualified professional who can help deliver this intervention. EP’s assist people with injuries, illness, chronic conditions and disability to achieve all the astounding benefits of doing exercise in a safe and effective way.

How do Exercise Physiologists help?

An EP will initially perform an assessment where they will listen to your challenges, problems and goals then assess your physical capacity using a range of standardized outcome measures. From here they can guide you through an individualized exercise program designed to achieve your goals.

Good EP’s will not only provide an individualized program but will educate on ways to make it fun, engaging, and an exciting activity that you want to do!

Who should see an Exercise Physiologist?

Anyone who is looking to improve their health and well-being, looking to manage a chronic illness, rehabilitate from a past injury, or even manage the symptoms of an ongoing disability should see an EP.

How can I access an Exercise Physiologist?

There are several ways to find a local Exercise Physiologist. This can be done through the Exercise Sport Science Australia search function (https://www.essa.org.au/find-aep) or reach out to us at OTEP.

Being registered allied health professionals, Exercise Physiologists rebates can be accessed through a number of compensable schemes. DVA card holders can access EP services, and a rebate can also be provided through Medicare Chronic Disease Management Plan, which can be accessed through your GP if you are eligible.

Exercise Physiology can also be accessed for NDIS Participants under the Capacity Building Supports category. NDIS Participants can access EP support in-clinic or in a mobile capacity. Mobile Exercise Physiology is a great option for those looking to begin exercise slowly in the comfort and safety of their own homes. Additionally, a mobile therapist can help provide EP support to those who may have mobility issues, and struggle to access all areas of their community.

So, what are the next steps?

Now it’s over to you! If you have been struggling with injury, pain, chronic disease, or managing a disability, and would like to start some exercise to begin a journey of self-improvement then reaching out to an Exercise Physiologist is the next step for you.

At OTEP we provide caring and empathetic Exercise physiology services in a fully mobile capacity. So if you are looking for an Exercise Physiologist to visit you at home and help you towards your physical capacity goals, reach out to us as we would love to hear from you and get you started on this journey.