What Is Exercise Physiology? A Guide for Penrith Locals
Dealing with pain, injury, or a health condition can make daily life harder than it needs to be. Exercise might not be the first thing you think of, but the right kind of movement can make a real difference. That’s what exercise physiology is all about.
In this guide, we’ll explain what it is, how it works, and how it can help you move better, feel better, and take back control of your health — right here in Penrith.
What Is Exercise Physiology?
Exercise physiology is a type of healthcare that uses exercise to treat pain, injuries, and health problems. It’s not about getting fit for fun — it’s about helping people move better and feel better.
People see an Exercise Physiologist (EP) when they have:
Ongoing pain
Injuries that haven’t healed
Health issues like diabetes or heart disease
Trouble with strength, balance, or movement
Poor fitness after being sick or inactive
EPs are not personal trainers. They are university-trained professionals who know how the body works — especially when something’s wrong. In Australia, they’re recognised as Allied Health workers and are registered with ESSA, a national organisation that checks their training and safety.
An EP creates an exercise plan that’s based on your health needs. Every plan is built to be safe, simple, and helpful. If you’re recovering from illness, surgery, or injury — or just struggling to move the way you used to — an EP can help you take the next step forward.
What Can Exercise Physiology Help With?
Exercise physiologists help people who are dealing with pain, health problems, or trouble moving. They use exercise as a safe way to feel better and get stronger.
Here are some things they can help with:
Back or neck pain
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Heart disease
Arthritis or joint pain
Weight problems
Asthma or other breathing issues
Anxiety or depression
Recovery after surgery
Balance or falling issues
Cancer recovery
They also help people who just want to stay active and avoid getting hurt.
If your body feels weak, stiff, or slow — or if pain or health problems are getting in the way — an exercise physiologist can help you move safely and feel better.
What Does an Exercise Physiologist Do?
An Exercise Physiologist (or EP) helps you use the right kind of exercise to feel better, move better, and stay healthy. They don’t just hand you a workout plan and walk away — they stick with you and guide you through it.
Here’s what they usually do:
Ask about your health, your goals, and what your day-to-day life looks like
Check how strong you are, how well you move, and how fit you are
Make a simple, safe exercise plan that fits your needs
Show you how to do each exercise the right way
Keep track of your progress and change your plan if needed
EPs work in lots of places. You might find them in:
Health clinics
Local gyms
Hospitals
Aged care homes
Community health centres
Some aso offer home visits or online sessions, which can be great if you have trouble getting out.
They’re there to help you build strength, move safely, and feel more in control of your health
What’s the Difference Between an Exercise Physiologist and a Physio?
A lot of people in Penrith ask this — and it’s a good question. Physios and Exercise Physiologists both help with pain, injury, and recovery, but they do it in different ways.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Physiotherapist Exercise Physiologist
Uses hands-on treatment (like massage or joint work) Uses exercise only (no hands-on treatment)
Helps with pain and early healing Helps with long-term recovery and fitness
Good for fresh injuries or after surgery Good for getting stronger and staying active
Short-term care Ongoing support and planning
Most people see a physio first, like right after an injury or surgery. Once the pain is better, they move on to an Exercise Physiologist to rebuild strength and stay healthy.
Do You Need a Referral?
You don’t need a referral to see an Exercise Physiologist. You can book for yourself.
If you have a long-term health condition, your GP might give you a Chronic Disease Management Plan (also called an EPC). This lets you get up to 5 sessions each year with Medicare.
Other ways to get it covered include:
Private health insurance
NDIS
DVA (for veterans)
WorkCover (for work injuries)
If you're not sure what you can claim, your GP or the clinic can help.
What Happens in the First Appointment?
Your first appointment takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
Here’s what to expect:
You talk about your health, past injuries, and any problems you’re having
They check your movement, balance, and fitness
You set goals together
They give you a simple exercise plan made for you
You get clear instructions on what to do next
You don’t need to be fit. You don’t need special gear. The plan is based on what you can do now and can be changed anytime.
How to Find an Accredited Exercise Physiologist in Penrith
To stay safe, make sure your Exercise Physiologist is registered with ESSA. You can check their name on the ESSA website or ask your GP for a recommendation.
When looking for a clinic in Penrith, choose one that:
Accepts beginners
Focuses on health conditions, not just fitness goals
Has experience with your specific needs
Treats you with respect and explains things clearly
Not sure where to start? Call a local clinic and ask what they offer. The right one will give you straight answers and take the time to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is exercise physiology?
Exercise physiology is the study of how your body works during movement. It focuses on how exercise can help with health problems, build strength, and improve the way your body functions.
How can exercise physiology help you?
If you have a health condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, exercise physiology can help. It uses safe, planned exercise to support your recovery and help you feel better.
What is the goal of exercise physiology?
The main goal is to help you move safely, build strength, and learn what kind of exercise works best for your body. It’s about making steady progress over time — at your pace.
What happens when you exercise?
When you move your body, your muscles need more oxygen and energy. Exercise physiology looks at how your heart, lungs, and muscles respond — and how to use that knowledge to train safely.
Is exercise physiology the same as physiotherapy?
No. A physiotherapist diagnoses and treats injuries. An exercise physiologist builds an exercise plan based on that diagnosis to help you get stronger and recover over time. They often work together.
Need an Exercise Physiologist in Penrith?
Book your first session with one of our accredited Exercise Physiologists at Penrith Functional Health Solutions.
We help with pain, injuries, chronic health conditions, and getting your strength back — all through safe, personalised exercise plans.
Call 0416 981 230 now or Contact Us online to get started. We're here to make movement work for you.