What to expect from an Exercise Physiology Session
I get many questions before clients start an Exercise Physiology session, for example; What is an Exercise Physiologist? Or What does an Exercise Physiology session entail?
Firstly, Accredited Exercise Physiologists or AEP’s as defined by ESSA are ‘university qualified allied health professionals equipped with the knowledge, skills and competencies to design, deliver and evaluate safe and effective exercise interventions for people with acute, sub-acute or chronic medical conditions, injuries or disabilities’. Pathology domains covered by the services of AEPs include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Metabolic disease
- Neurological diseases and injuries
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Cancer
- Kidney pathologies
- Respiratory disease
- Mental health issues
- Any other conditions for which there is evidence that exercise can improve your pain or daily function.
What to expect when you see an AEP will vary depending on your situation and your goals, however, your initial session may involve the following:
- Going through a series of assessments that can be repeated to demonstrate progress
- Goal setting discussion and planning
- This can involve both short- and long-term goals with a discussion around barriers and ways to overcome these to reach your goals
- Going through an individualised exercise program, checking in on your technique whilst you perform these and making adjustments as your AEP sees fit so you get the best out of your exercises.
- Education in the benefits of exercise for your condition and how specific exercise can benefit you
- Planning – discussing how to self-manage until your next review
Generally, with my clients I am in constant contact whilst you are under my care, be it checking in to make sure you are completing your exercises or being ready to answer any questions regarding technique between appointments. I feel this is quite beneficial for my clients as it helps to keep them accountable for their progress as well as allowing for exercise progression in between sessions. Having access to our AEPs also supports you so you never feel alone in your journey with us, as having an injury or a condition can be scary and confronting particularly when you throw exercise into the mix.
If you are unsure on how an Exercise Physiologist may be able to help you or if you are looking to get started please get in touch.