Ever wished there was a health professional who could take all the confusion out of exercise and design a plan that’s actually right for your body? That’s exactly what an exercise physiologist does. They’re not just about getting you fitter or stronger — although that’s often part of it. An exercise physiologist (EP) is an allied health professional with specialist training in how the body responds to exercise, tailoring programs that help people recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, reduce pain and simply feel better in their day-to-day lives.

Unlike a personal trainer or gym instructor, exercise physiologists are university qualified and have in-depth knowledge of how physical activity influences both mental and physical health. As accredited exercise physiologist Tim Douge explains:

“Exercise physiologists apply their knowledge with a therapeutic approach, aiming to improve quality of life, disease management or treatment outcomes across all populations.”

Thanks to their broad skill set, exercise physiologists (EPs) can be found in a wide variety of settings. They’re not limited to gyms or sporting clubs – in fact, many work alongside doctors, nurses, and other allied health professionals to make sure people get the right kind of movement for their situation.

You’ll see EPs in:

• Hospitals and GP clinics – helping patients manage chronic disease, recover from surgery, or safely build up their strength.
• Community health organisations – running programs that encourage healthier lifestyles across all ages and abilities.
• Rehabilitation centres – guiding people through tailored exercise plans after accidents, injuries or medical events like a stroke.
• Sports teams and fitness facilities – boosting performance, preventing injuries, and helping athletes recover.
• Private practice – working one-on-one with clients to meet personal health or fitness goals.
• Corporate and workplace health programs – creating exercise strategies to improve employee wellbeing and reduce workplace injuries.

Because their knowledge is so broad, EPs support people living with all sorts of conditions. Their programs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Every plan is adapted to the person’s health, abilities and goals. Some of the most common areas they work with include:

• Heart disease and stroke – using exercise to improve cardiovascular health and aid recovery.
• Neurological conditions – such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis, helping maintain mobility and independence.
• COPD, asthma and other respiratory issues – building lung capacity and improving breathing efficiency.
• Diabetes and metabolic disorders – supporting blood sugar control and weight management.
• Chronic pain – teaching gentle, targeted movement to reduce discomfort and build resilience.
• Mental health conditions – using exercise to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and boost confidence.
• Post-operative rehabilitation – guiding safe recovery after surgery.
• Cancer treatment and recovery – helping patients rebuild strength and energy during or after treatment.
• Arthritis, osteoporosis and mobility challenges – reducing stiffness, protecting joints, and improving balance to lower the risk of falls.

And of course, they also help people who are new to exercise or returning after a break, making sure the activity chosen is safe and beneficial.
“It is generally accepted that some physical activity is essential for the vast majority of people therefore any person who is looking to exercise for the first time or start again after a long time should visit an exercise physiologist to ensure they are choosing the right type of exercise for their body and their health,” says Mr Douge.

Exercise physiologists and physiotherapists often work side by side, but their focus is slightly different:

• Physiotherapists: Place a strong emphasis on diagnosing and treating injury or illness, often using hands-on methods (like massage, joint mobilisation or dry needling) to reduce acute symptoms.
• Exercise Physiologists: Focus more on long-term improvements in function and quality of life, primarily through exercise programs tailored to the individual.

“The training of a physiotherapist has a heavy emphasis on the diagnosis and assessment of disease and disability states within the body, as such much of their treatment revolves around the acute reduction of symptoms,” says Mr Douge. “Exercise physiologists have a greater emphasis on increasing functional capacities and quality of life over a longer period of time with a focus on chronic disease management.”

Because their work complements each other so well, some universities even offer dual degrees in physiotherapy and exercise physiology.
To become an accredited EP in Australia, you’ll need to complete a four-year university degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology (or a similar program, such as Exercise and Sports Science).

Once you’ve graduated, you can apply for membership with Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) – the professional body that accredits exercise physiologists.

Like many health professions, ongoing education is essential. EPs must complete regular professional development to stay up to date with new research and treatment approaches.

Exercise physiology is still a relatively young profession, but it’s expanding rapidly. ESSA represents around 11,000 degree-qualified exercise professionals across Australia, including Accredited Exercise Physiologists.

With an ageing population and rising rates of chronic disease, the demand for exercise physiologists is only set to increase.
EPs are best suited to people who are:

• Interested in health, science and fitness
• Caring, patient and supportive
• Skilled at building long-term relationships with clients
• Motivated to keep learning – as research in this field is evolving quickly

Exercise physiologists are so much more than fitness professionals. They are allied health experts who use exercise as medicine – helping people recover, manage illness, and live healthier, more active lives.