Exercise Physiology

Allied Health Professionals committed to providing safe and effective exercise interventions for all populations.

Do you have a medical condition or injury?

Then a highly qualified Exercise Physiologist can treat and manage your condition safely and effective!

Feel 100% confident as you embark on your exercise program

Our Exercise Physiology clinic at Inspire Fitness specialises in the management and treatment of medical conditions, chronic disease and injuries through advanced exercise and lifestyle management programs.

Our Clinical Exercise Physiology Team comprises university trained exercise professionals with the knowledge and expertise to specially treat and manage your medical or injury history. Our team provides specialized exercise interventions based on clinical evidence to ensure you can exercise with absolute confidence and assurance.

Our Exercise Physiology Clinic services can be claimed on most Private Health Insurance;  or can be claimed under Medicare when you are referred through a care plan (EPC) by your GP.  Exercise Physiology services at Inspire Fitness can also be accessed through NDIS, TAC and DVA.

What is an Exercise Physiologist?

An Exercise Physiologist (EP) is a 4-Year University qualified allied health professional who specializes in the delivery of exercise, lifestyle and behavioural modification programs for the prevention and management of chronic diseases and injuries.

Exercise Physiologists provide physical activity and behaviour change support for clients with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, depression, colon and prostate cancer, arthritis, chronic lung conditions and many other health conditions.

Clients at risk with existing chronic musculoskeletal injuries or at risk of developing such a condition and requiring an exercise rehabilitation program to improve physical function or mobility may also be referred to an Exercise Physiologist.

Exercise Physiologists assist in the treatment of;

  •  Cardiovascular Disease
  •  Diabetes
  •  Osteoporosis
  •  Depression
  •  Colon and prostate cancer
  •  Arthritis
  •  Chronic lung conditions
  •  Chronic musculoskeletal injuries
  •  Decreased physical function or mobility
  •  Fibromyalgia

When to see an Exercise Physiologist

Anyone can see an Exercise Physiologist!

If you feel you require some extra attention and specialised clinical care, then an Exercise Physiologist will be able to provide you with safe and effective exercise and lifestyle programs. You may also see an Exercise Physiologist if you have a chronic medical condition which is being managed by your GP.

A chronic medical condition is one that has been (or is likely to be) present for 6 months or longer. It includes, but is not limited to, conditions such as asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, musculoskeletal conditions and stroke.

What to expect in an Exercise Physiology session?

An Exercise Physiologist will identify your relevant medical information and specific goals to assist you in improving your health. The Exercise Physiologist will review this information and conduct an assessment to determine your functional capacities and any exercise associated risks. The Exercise Physiologist will also evaluate any nutrition and lifestyle issues that need to be addressed to assist you in achieving your health objectives. Following this assessment, the Exercise Physiologist will discuss with you the range of exercise options available to achieve your specified health, fitness, and lifestyle goals.

Exercise Physiology Case studies

Type 2 Diabetes

A patient who was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 2 years ago came to see me after his doctor wanted to increase his diabetes medication. He wanted to see if exercise could help him better manage his diabetes without needing to take extra medication. The patient was 56 years old, had never exercised before, and had not previously received any formal diabetes education. The patient’s HbA1c levels (indication of diabetes control over a 3 month period) were 10.9 (poor control), his waist circumference was 98.5 cm (for men should be less than 94) and, his cardiovascular fitness was very poor. The patient had never tested his own blood glucose before and his random reading was 7.8 and his blood pressure was 140/90.

After setting goals with the patient we commenced a Medicare subsidised 8- week diabetes education and exercise program. Each session consisted of 10 mins of education and 50 mins of exercise twice per week. During this period the patient learnt how to self monitor his blood glucose and became a NDSS (National Diabetes Services Scheme) member. At the end of the program the patient was self monitoring his blood glucose levels daily and keeping a log. The patient also improved his HbA1c levels to 7.3 (adequate control), maintained blood glucose levels below 7, and lowered his blood pressure to 132/87. The patient’s cardiovascular fitness improved two levels and made significant improvements to his diet.

Once the Medicare subsidised sessions were completed the patient stayed on as a self managed gym member, following a diabetes specific exercise program. The patient’s progress is reviewed every 6 weeks and follow up reports are forwarded to his GP. This patient has now incorporated exercise as an enjoyable and effective part of his weekly routine benefiting from the many positives that exercise provides.