Exercise Physiology is a 4 year university degree that is grounded in the use of exercise to prevent and manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, cancer etc. It specialises in the use of exercise as medicine to help people regain or maintain their function and health.
Exercise Physiologists (EPs) are different in that they possess extensive knowledge, skills and experience in clinical exercise delivery and their ability to provide health modification counselling for people with chronic disease and injury.
Whilst an EP will have a focus on treating and managing disease and illness, there is also an emphasis on disease prevention in which they can plan long-term prevention strategies to access a more optimal state of health. The combination of exercise prescription and behaviour change strategies are used to empower clients to better manage their health and assist them on their journey to optimum functioning.