When it comes to your health and wellbeing, having the right support and expertise by you side is essential. For many, and Exercise Physiologist is a crucial support when managing chronic conditions, recovering from injuries, optimizing performance or managing disabilities. But how do you find the best exercise physiologist to suit your needs? In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know to find the best exercise physiologist for you.
What does an Exercise Physiologist do?
First, it is important to understand what an exercise physiologist does.
An exercise physiologist is a health professional with specialised training in the effects of physical activity on the body. With this knowledge, they design and implement personalised exercise programs based on the needs of individuals with different conditions, injuries, and disabilities. Exercise physiologists use their evidence-based knowledge to help clients:
- Improve cardiovascular health
- Recover from injuries
- Enhance strength, endurance, flexibility and mobility
- Manage chronic conditions including diabetes, and arthritis
Step 1: Determine your needs
Before finding an exercise physiologist, it is important to assess what it is you’re hoping to achieve with their help. Do you have an injury that needs rehabilitation? Do you have a
chronic condition to manage? Or are you wanting to improve your physical capabilities to maximise your quality of life? Understanding your specific needs will help you to choose an exercise physiologist with the right expertise.
Step 2: Check credentials and qualifications
In many countries, Exercise Physiologists are required to have formal qualifications and
certifications in order to practice. Therefore, it is important to check their credentials to
ensure they have the appropriate education, training and certification.
Key credentials to look for:
- Degree in exercise physiology: Most exercise physiologists will hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology. More recent graduates will have a Bachelor’s degree in exercise science or similar health-related field and a Masters of Exercise Physiology.
- Accreditation: In Australia, all practicing exercise physiologists are required to have
accreditation with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA), the governing body
for Exercise Scientists and Exercise Physiologists.
Step 3: Look for specialisation and experience
While all exercise physiologists have a foundational understanding of the human body, many have specific areas of interest and/or expertise. For example:
- If you are recovering from an injury or surgery, look for an exercise physiologist who specialises in rehabilitation and injury recovery, or the area the injury/surgery is located (e.g. knee, back, shoulder).
- If you have a neurological condition, look for an exercise physiologist who specialises in your condition.
Step 4: Research Reviews and Referrals
Personal referrals are extremely valuable as they offer firsthand experience from people
working with the exercise physiologist. Ask friends, family, or your healthcare provider if
they have any recommendations. Online reviews can also be useful. While there are
regulations regarding displaying client reviews on practitioner websites, checking google reviews and health forums for feedback from previous or current clients can be beneficial. Checking social media pages and websites can also provide a sense of an exercise physiologist’s professionalism.
Step 5: Consider Location and Availability
Ease of access is important when choosing a healthcare provider, so consider the location of the practice in relation to your home or workplace. Many Exercise physiologists operate in gyms, private clinics or rehabilitation centres, while some offer mobile sessions (they can come to you) or virtual consultations or programming.
It is also important to check availability. Do they have sessions available that suit your
schedule? Some exercise physiologists offer evening or weekend appointments, and some have waitlists, so it’s important to inquire about availability.
Step 6: consider the cost and insurance coverage
Exercise physiologists may have different rates depending on the session type and length. Be sure to inquire about the pricing upfront. Some exercise physiologists accept NDIS clients, DVA clients, Private health insurance or Medicare referrals. Be sure to inquire if they accept these funds. Some health insurance plans may cover exercise physiology services, with some requiring a referral by a physician. Check with your insurance company if your sessions will be covered and whether you need a referral.
Step 7: Schedule a consultation
Once you think you’ve found the right Exercise Physiologist for you, call, email or book
online for an initial consultation. Once you’ve met with them, you should have a good sense of whether they’re a good fit for you. Remember you should feel comfortable, supported, and confident in their abilities to help you achieve your goals.
If you would like to know more about how Exercise Physiology can help you or think one of our Exercise Physiologists may be right for you, book an appointment today at Urban Health HQ. You can make an appointment at our Ellenbrook clinic today by calling 0411563391, email admin@urbanhealthhq.com.au, or via our website https://urbanhealthhq.com.au/.
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