Understanding the Role of an AEP & How They Help You Move Better, Live Stronger
“So… are you a physiotherapist?”
Not quite.
“A personal trainer, then?”
Also… not quite.
As an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP), this is a question I get all the time—and it’s no surprise. Most people haven’t heard of exercise physiology until they’re referred by a doctor, managing a chronic condition, or recovering from injury.
Let’s break it down.
What Does an Exercise Physiologist Actually Do?
An Exercise Physiologist is a university-qualified allied health professional who specialises in using exercise as medicine. We design and deliver tailored exercise programs to help manage, treat, and prevent chronic disease, illness, and injury.
We’re not about high-intensity bootcamps or general fitness plans. We’re about helping you move better, manage pain or health conditions, and improve quality of life through movement.
AEPs are recognised providers under:
✔️ Medicare
✔️ DVA (Department of Veterans’ Affairs)
✔️ WorkCover
✔️ Most private health funds
Learn more about our exercise physiology services
What Can an AEP Help You With?
AEPs have a wide scope of practice, and many practitioners specialise in specific populations or conditions.
Here’s what we typically support:
- Cardiovascular conditions: hypertension, coronary artery disease
- Musculoskeletal injuries: lower back pain, scoliosis, chronic pain
- Bone health: osteoporosis, osteoarthritis
- Women’s health: pre/postnatal exercise
- Mental health: depression, anxiety, PTSD
- Diabetes and metabolic conditions
- Post-surgical rehab: e.g. joint replacements
- Neurological conditions: Parkinson’s, MS, stroke
We also work with people who want to prevent illness, manage weight, improve mobility, or stay active while managing a long-term condition.
What Happens When You See an Exercise Physiologist?
At The Active Studio, we tailor every session to your goals, condition, and current ability. Here’s what a typical initial appointment might involve:
- Initial Consultation: We chat about your medical history, current health status, and what you’d like to achieve
- Physical Assessments: These may include mobility, strength, balance, and functional movement tests
- Health Measurements: Like waist circumference, blood pressure, or other clinical markers (if relevant)
- Goal Setting & Planning: We work with you to map out a realistic and personalised plan—this might involve:
- 1:1 clinical sessions
- Group exercise classes
- A home program
- Walking group or gym referral
You’ll walk away with a clear plan, real support, and ongoing guidance.
Book your initial consultation
How Are Exercise Physiologists Different from Physiotherapists?
This is a common (and great) question.
| Exercise Physiologist | Physiotherapist |
| Specialises in long-term management of chronic disease and injury | Specialises in acute injury diagnosis and early-phase rehab |
| Uses exercise as the main tool | Uses manual therapy, diagnosis, and exercise |
| Cannot diagnose injuries | Can diagnose injuries |
| Works with clients over months or years | Often involved in early stages of recovery |
| Focuses on lifestyle change, prevention, and function | Focuses on tissue healing and short-term rehab |
In an ideal world, EPs and Physios work together to support your health journey.
What Does an EP Actually Do?
Here’s a quick breakdown of what we help with in session:
- ✔ Prescribe strength, flexibility, cardio, balance & mobility exercises
- ✔ Teach correct technique and safe movement
- ✔ Support core engagement and postural control
- ✔ Rehabilitate injuries and manage chronic pain
- ✔ Improve physical function and build confidence
- ✔ Help you move more and move better in everyday life
- ✔ Motivate, educate, and support lifestyle change
Exercise physiology is about treating people with movement, not just for recovery—but for lifelong health and wellbeing. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, recovering from surgery, or just want a safer, more effective way to stay active, working with an Accredited Exercise Physiologist can help.
