What is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist and How Can They Help You?

An Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) is a university-qualified exercise specialist governed by Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA). Much like a doctor prescribes medicine, AEPs prescribe targeted exercise to help manage a range of health conditions. AEPs are required to undertake ongoing education, earning at least 20 professional development points annually to stay up to date with best practices and deliver the highest standard of care.

AEPs provide services under various schemes, including:

• Medicare

• NDIS (under ‘Improved Daily Living’ and ‘Health and Wellbeing’)

• WorkCover

• DVA (for white and gold cardholders with a GP referral)

Their role is to design safe, individualised exercise plans to address your physical, medical, or functional needs. While AEPs don’t diagnose conditions or perform hands-on treatment, they are experts in behaviour change and long-term health management. And if your needs involve manual therapy, Foundation Allied Health also has an in-house physiotherapist available.

What Conditions Can an AEP Help With?

AEPs work with a wide range of chronic and acute health conditions. Here are some key examples and how exercise can help:

• Cardiovascular conditions (e.g., stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure): Improves aerobic capacity, circulation, stamina, and heart health.

• Metabolic conditions (e.g., type 2 diabetes, obesity): Regulates blood sugar, supports weight management, and boosts energy.

• Musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., arthritis, osteoporosis, chronic pain): Enhances strength, mobility, and reduces discomfort.

• Mental health (e.g., anxiety, depression): Improves mood, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being.

• Neurological conditions (e.g., Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s): Improves mobility, balance, and independence.

• Respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD): Builds lung capacity and supports easier breathing.

• Cancer recovery: Reduces fatigue, preserves muscle, and improves quality of life.

• Disability (NDIS participants): Builds confidence, functional movement, independence, and community participation. 

At Foundation Allied Health, we’re passionate about helping people of all ages and abilities thrive through movement and education. We work alongside our Allied Health Assistant to extend care and improve access to NDIS participants using the ‘Improved Daily Living’ funding stream. This lets us reach more Blue Mountains residents seeking support in their health journey.

Leading Technology for Better Results

We also proudly use VALD performance technology, including dynamometry and force plates, to accurately assess your strength, balance, and range of motion. These tools provide objective data compared to age norms, whether you're an athlete working on performance or an older adult improving fall prevention.

Ready to Get Started?

If you are looking to improve your health, recover from injury, or better manage a condition, Foundation Allied Health in Lawson, NSW, is here to help. We offer flexible appointments throughout the week.

Call us today or send an email to book your appointment. Let’s work together toward your goals.