What is Exercise Physiology/ist?

What is Exercise Physiology?

Exercise physiology is the scientific study of how the body responds and adapts to physical activity and exercise. It encompasses various aspects of human physiology, including cardiovascular function, respiratory function, metabolism, muscular function, and neuroendocrine responses, among others.

Exercise physiologists investigate how different types, intensities, and durations of exercise affect these physiological systems. They also study how factors such as age, gender, fitness level, and environmental conditions influence exercise performance and health outcomes.

The ultimate goal of exercise physiology is to enhance athletic performance, optimize physical fitness, and promote health and well-being through exercise prescription, training programs, and lifestyle interventions.

What is an accredited exercise physiologist (AEP)?

AEPs 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, metabolic, neurological, musculoskeletal, cancers, kidney, respiratory / pulmonary and mental health, and any other conditions for which there is evidence that exercise can improve the client’s clinical status.

Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) is the peak professional body and sole accrediting authority for Accredited Exercise Physiologists. ESSA is also the accrediting body for Accredited Exercise Scientists, Accredited Sports Scientists and Accredited High Performance Managers.

To gain AEP accreditation with ESSA an individual must:

• Graduate from a minimum 4 years of study in an ESSA accredited course meeting the AQF requirements for Level 7 that leads to bachelor degree qualifications
• Meet the professional standards for exercise science, leading to accreditation as an Accredited Exercise Scientist (AES)*, including 140 hours of practical experience for the purpose of undertaking an exercise intervention to improve health and fitness, wellbeing or performance, or focus on prevention of chronic conditions
• Meet the professional standards for exercise physiology, including 360 hours of practical experience with clients with clinical conditions (eg. cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, musculoskeletal, neurological)