Exercise Physiologist vs Physiotherapist vs Personal Trainer

This is a question we get asked regularly.

 

An Accredited Exercise Physiologist is a recognised professional within the health and medical sector who has completed a minimum 4 years of university training. 

 

An exercise physiologist is a specialist in exercise rehabilitation, exercise for health and complex medical conditions (i.e. osteoporosis, neurological disorders, obesity, diabetes), musculoskeletal rehabilitation, work conditioning, injury management, postural control and improving sports performance.  There is also a strong focus on behavioural change and self-management concepts.

 

How are Accredited Exercise Physiologists different from Physiotherapists?

 

Exercise physiology and physiotherapy are both recognised allied health professions.

Accredited exercise physiologists (AEPs) primarily treat patients using clinical exercise interventions and behaviour-change strategies. 

Physiotherapists diagnose (AEPs do not diagnose), treat and manage acute injury (the early stage of an injury), disability and pain through physical techniques such as manipulation, massage and exercise.

 

Who should you see?

 

See a physiotherapist for acute injuries, pain, movement dysfunction,  early-stage post-op rehab or when you need clinical diagnosis and hands-on treatment.

 

See an exercise physiologist for exercise-based rehabilitation, chronic disease management, improving fitness safely with medical conditions, or structured long-term exercise programs.

 

 

What is the difference between an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) and a Personal Trainer (PT)? 

 

Personal trainers generally complete courses ranging 6 to 18 months and can only work with healthy populations as part of the fitness and recreation industry. Personal trainers do not have the training or education to treat people with complex medical conditions.

 

Unlike personal trainers, Accredited Exercise Physiologists can work with DVA clients, and offer Medicare and private health rebates.

 

To discover if you need an AEP, access this link to explore the range of ways in which we can help you: http://www.exerciseright.com.au/whoneedsaep/