As an Exercise Physiologist working in an allied health clinic, I often get asked: Why should I see an EP?
The short answer? Because your body deserves tailored care that empowers you to move well, feel stronger, and live your best life – no matter your current health status.
So, what exactly is an Exercise Physiologist?
An Exercise Physiologist (EP) is a university-qualified allied health professional specialising in clinical exercise interventions for people living with chronic diseases, injuries, and other health concerns. We use evidence-based exercise prescription, education, and lifestyle support to help improve your overall health and wellbeing.
In a multidisciplinary setting, I work alongside other healthcare professionals – such as dietitians, psychologists, and GPs – to provide truly holistic care. Together, we address not only your physical health but also your mental, emotional, and social wellbeing.
What’s the benefit of seeing an EP?
Individualised care – Your body, your story, your exercise plan. I don’t hand out generic programs. Instead, we sit down together and consider your medical history, current abilities, goals, and lifestyle to create something that actually works for YOU.
Evidence-based management of chronic conditions – Whether you’re living with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, cancer, or persistent pain, exercise can be a powerful tool to improve quality of life and reduce symptoms.
Reduce injury risk and manage pain – As an EP, I understand how to safely progress or modify exercises based on your body’s needs, including injury prevention and rehabilitation.
Holistic approach – Within our clinic, I collaborate with other professionals to ensure you receive well-rounded care. For example, if you’re also seeing our dietitian, we can integrate movement with your nutrition plan to enhance outcomes
How can I help?
Chronic Disease Management – Designing exercise programs that improve heart health, blood glucose control, lung capacity, joint function, or fatigue management.
Pain Relief & Injury Rehabilitation – Whether you’ve got chronic back pain, recovering from surgery, or dealing with repetitive strain injuries, I create programs to strengthen, mobilise, and restore function.
Strength & Conditioning – For clients wanting to improve their overall fitness, build strength, boost balance, or prepare for specific life events (e.g., surgery, pregnancy, return to sport).
A few simple ways to add more movement into your day:
Desk worker? Stand up every 30 minutes and do 10 air squats, some calf raises, or shoulder rolls.
Commuting? Park further from the office or get off public transport a stop earlier to sneak in some extra walking.
Evening routine? Swap 10 minutes of scrolling for a quick stretch, foam rolling session, or a bodyweight circuit.
Example of a simple at-home routine you could try:
Full-Body Movement Snack:
- 10-12 bodyweight squats
- 8-10 bench push-ups
- 30-second plank hold
- 10-12 glute bridges
- 30-second march on the spot
Repeat 2-3 rounds
But here’s the key – while general advice is great, seeing an EP allows us to tailor your movement plan to suit your body and your goals, especially if you’re living with chronic health conditions.
For instance, if you have osteoarthritis, we might focus on joint-friendly exercises that strengthen without aggravating pain. If you have cardiovascular concerns, I’ll guide you through aerobic and resistance training that safely improves your heart health.
If you’re unsure how to start or how to progress safely, booking an appointment with an EP is your first step toward taking charge of your health. And in a holistic clinic like ours, you’ll have the benefit of integrated care across the whole spectrum of your wellbeing.
Ready to feel stronger, move better, and live well?
Let’s chat about how I can help you get there.
By Elka MacKinnon
Accredited Exercise Physiology
