An Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) is a university qualified allied health professional who specialises in the delivery of exercise and lifestyle programs for healthy individuals and those with chronic medical conditions, injuries, or disabilities.

AEPs possess extensive knowledge, skills, and experience in clinical exercise delivery. They provide health modification counselling for people with chronic disease and injury with a strong focus on behavioural change.

Working across a variety of areas in health, exercise and sport, services delivered by an AEP are also claimable under compensable schemes such as Medicare and covered by most private health insurers. When it comes to the prescription of exercise, they are the most qualified professionals in Australia.

Distinguishing between a physiotherapist and an exercise physiologist can be quite difficult, as the two are not mutually exclusive. Both can work within a broad scope of practice, so it is only natural that confusion exists. Although there are similarities, they are not the same thing.

Both are allied health professionals who have done a minimum of 4 years’ study at university, however there are differences in their areas of expertise. Physiotherapists generally focus on the diagnosis of acute injuries as well as helping to treat pain and restoring function. Exercise physiologists use evidence-based movement and exercise intervention for chronic disease prevention and management, musculoskeletal injuries, and weight management. Our exercise physiologist and physiotherapists work closely together to ensure the best results for our clients.

AEPs are the experts in prescribing the right exercise to help you prevent/manage your chronic disease, help you recover faster from surgery or an injury, or help you to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

AEPs can help treat and/or manage:

• Diabetes and pre-diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Arthritis and osteoporosis
• Chronic respiratory disease and asthma
• Depression and mental health conditions
• Different forms of cancer
• Musculoskeletal injuries
• Neuromuscular disease
• Obesity
• And much more!

During an initial consultation with our AEP at Pottsville and Cabarita Physiotherapy, you will undertake a comprehensive assessment to develop an exercise plan based on your unique requirements. This session will likely be quite a few questions about your health and history. A lot of people are concerned about what to wear to this appointment. We encourage you to wear comfortable clothing as you may be asked to do a range of movements and bring some comfortable walking shoes as you may need to complete an aerobic assessment. After this session, you will be provided with a plan of action.

Working with an AEP can be a truly rewarding process and they can make a hugely positive impact to your life. Our AEP, Sammy, has special interests in the areas of Cancer, Mental Health, Osteoporosis and Clinical Pilates. To make a booking  click here

Please fill out this form prior to your first appointment: EP Initial form