Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP)

Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) are allied health professionals who specialise in assessing, planning, and managing exercise interventions for a broad range of health problems and conditions. The aim of AEP is to manage or prevent acute, sub-acute, and chronic disease and injuries in an attempt rehabilitate, or delay the progression of illness. AEPs will not only provide education on exercise and injury/condition management but also provide support in education, health and wellness to create behavioral change. 

Where do AEPs work?

As allied health professionals AEPs work within the public and private healthcare systems and can be see in some of the following locations:

• Hospitals (public and private) rehabilitation programs such as cardiac rehabilitation
• Rehabilitation centres
• Gyms
• Private Training Studios
• Home-based exercise delivery
• Strength and condition coaches for sporting teams and individuals
• Multidisciplinary allied health clinics
• Doctors practices
• Workplace health and rehabilitation
• and much more

Why would I see an AEP

There are a vast range of reasons and benefits as why you might seek help from an AEP.

The conditions and illnesses you can be referred to include:

• Musculoskeletal conditions
  • Arthritis
  • Osteoporosis
  • acute/chronic injury rehabilitation
• Cardiovascular diseases
  • Post heart attack rehabilitation
  • Heart failure
• Metabolic diseases
  • Diabetes
• Pulmonary diseases
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Neurological diseases 
  • Parkinson's
  • Multiple sclerosis
• Mental health conditions
  • Depression
• Cancer

AEPs also can provide services for:

• Functional capacity assessments
• Strength and conditioning programs
• Injury prevention programs
• Limited health assessments

How are AEPs qualified and who accredits them?

To be registered as an AEP, individuals must complete the following:

• A 4-year university degree from an accredited program 
• Adhere to yearly continuing education requirements
• Maintain first aid and CPR qualification
• Be insured to practice

The governing body of AEPs is Exercise Sports Science Australia (ESSA). They not only regulate AEPs but also exercise scientists and sports scientists. While regulation is part of their role, ESSA provides advocacy for the role of AEPs within the healthcare system. 

What is an Exercise Physiology consult involve?

An Exercise Physiology consultation involves 3 main stages (follow up appointments generally only consisting of stage 2 and 3):

1. ​Client history
2. Health and condition assessment
3. Exercise delivery/planning

The purpose of collecting health history information is necessary in understanding of your condition and what other health concerns may impact your management plan. The assessment seeks to create a base-line of where you are currently in your health journey and what needs to be addressed in the management plan. Exercise delivery/planning involves educating you on where you are in your health journey, both short and long-term goals, and what exercise interventions are recommended. 

Some AEPs will choose to complete either all 3 stages or just stage 1 and 2 during the initial consultation, with stage 3 completed on a follow up. Both options have your best interests at heart, and it is up to you and each individual AEP to determine how your plan will go.  This is a team situation where you are a vital member of your health team and we as AEPs and allied health professionals are here to encourage and assist you in achieving your goals.