The Why and How of Exercise Physiology for the Beginner
What is Exercise Physiology?
In a nutshell, it is exercise applied clinically as a treatment and therapy to help your lifestyle. i.e. Exercise is the medicine!
What are the Qualifications of an Exercise Physiologist?
These are highly trained, university qualified professionals with accreditation from Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). They have an extensive knowledge in the disciplines of human anatomy and physiology, musculoskeletal injuries, and medical conditions such as cardiac disease.
Is it Different to Physiotherapy?
While physiotherapists and exercise physiologists work together as a team from the acute stage through to getting you back to work and normal activities, they are different. A physio provides the early-stage assessment and the initial treatment to relieve pain and restore function. The exercise physiologist, through supervised clinical exercise programs, aims to improve the strength and condition of the injured region and restore function. Treatments may be in a clinic-based gym or hydrotherapy pool.
Is it Different to Personal Training?
Absolutely! For a start, an Exercise Physiologist undergoes at least 500 clinical hours of training, and are university trained with an extensive knowledge of the human body, metabolic and physiological illnesses, and musculoskeletal injuries. They are trained to work with people who are not well, though they can also help you to stay well, keep fit, and maintain mobility. After all, they are experts in the field of exercise.
Personal trainers require a Certificate or Diploma of Fitness, and generally work with people who are relatively healthy. They provide goals and feedback towards attaining a level of fitness and strength, though they may also advise on general health and nutrition.
Do I Need a Referral?
As a private client you won’t need a referral, but you do if you are a patient under Medicare, DVA, Workers Compensation or CTP claims. Your doctor or other medical professional may refer you for treatment to prevent or manage a chronic injury or disease, to improve physical function and wellbeing or to aid in returning you to good health.
Now that you know what an Exercise Physiologist is and does, and you feel you would benefit from their expertise, ask your doctor for a referral or simply phone for an appointment at Williamstown Osteo and Pilates.
