Exercise as Medicine: How Exercise Physiology Supports Your Health

What is Exercise Physiology? Benefits and Medical Applications

Exercise physiology is a scientific discipline that focuses on the study of how physical activity impacts the body’s systems. Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) are allied health professionals who specialise in the design and delivery of safe, effective exercise programs for people with a wide range of health conditions, chronic diseases, or injuries. Grounded in evidence-based practice, exercise physiology is not only about fitness and performance but also about prevention, rehabilitation, and managing long-term health.

Accredited Exercise Physiologists  hold university qualifications and are trained to work with clients who have complex medical needs and must be registered with exercise Sports Science Australia (ESSA) 

What Does an Exercise Physiologist Do?

Exercise physiologists assess an individual’s physical condition and develop tailored exercise programs to improve their overall health and wellbeing. Including:

• Conducting fitness and functional assessments

• Prescribing therapeutic exercise

• Providing education on lifestyle modification

• Monitoring progress and adjusting exercise treatment plans

Benefits of Exercise Physiology

Exercise physiology offers a wide range of benefits for both healthy individuals and those with medical conditions. Some of the key benefits include:

• Improved cardiovascular and muscular health

• Increased energy levels and reduced fatigue

• Enhanced mobility, balance, and flexibility

• Pain reduction and management

• Weight management and improved metabolic function

• Better mental health, including reduced anxiety and depression

• Lower risk of chronic disease progression

• Support in returning to work or physical activity after injury or surgery

 By taking a holistic approach to health, exercise physiologists help individuals regain independence and improve quality of life. 

Medical Conditions Treated by Exercise Physiology

Exercise physiology is recognised as an effective treatment and management strategy for a wide range of chronic and acute health conditions. These include:

1. Cardiovascular Conditions

• Heart disease

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

• Rehabilitation after heart surgery or cardiac events

 2. Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders

• Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes

• Obesity and insulin resistance

 3. Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

• Osteoporosis

• Chronic pain, injuries 

• Pre and post-op rehabilitation

 4. Respiratory Conditions

• Asthma

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

 5. Neurological Disorders

• Stroke

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

• Parkinson’s disease

 6. Cancer

• Support during and after treatment to improve strength, reduce fatigue, and aid recovery

 7. Other Chronic Diseases

• Chronic fatigue syndrome

• Fibromyalgia

• Chronic kidney disease

Accessing Exercise Physiology Services

In Australia, Accredited Exercise Physiologists are registered with Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA). Services may be accessed privately or through Medicare, private health insurance, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), and WorkCover schemes, depending on eligibility. 

Final Thoughts

Exercise physiology plays a vital role in managing health through movement. By targeting the underlying causes of illness and injury with personalised exercise interventions, exercise physiologists empower individuals to take control of their health, recover faster, and live more active, fulfilling lives. Whether you’re living with a chronic condition or simply looking to improve your wellbeing, an AEP can help you move better and live stronger.