What to Expect at Your First Appointment With an Exercise Physiologist

Starting your journey with an Exercise Physiologist can feel exciting — especially if you’re taking steps toward improving your health, fitness or injury recovery. Whether you’ve been referred by your GP, are rehabilitating after surgery, or simply want to manage a chronic condition, knowing what to expect during your first appointment can help you feel confident and prepared.

If you’re looking for support close to home, working with an Exercise Physiologist in Epping can provide convenient access to tailored, evidence-based care designed around your lifestyle, goals and capability.

What Is an Exercise Physiologist?

An Exercise Physiologist is a university-qualified allied health professional who specialises in prescribing safe and effective exercise programs for:

• Chronic conditions (such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and asthma)
• Injury rehabilitation
• Pain management
• Functional movement improvement
• Strength and mobility development

Unlike general personal trainers, Exercise Physiologists use scientific assessment, testing and clinical reasoning to design programs that support both long-term health and measurable progress.

What Happens at Your First Appointment?

Your initial session is typically 45–60 minutes and focuses on understanding your medical history, physical ability and goals. Below is a breakdown of what your appointment may include.

1. Initial Discussion and Health History Review

Your Exercise Physiologist will begin with a detailed conversation about your:

• Medical conditions
• Medications
• Previous injuries or surgeries
• Pain levels
• Lifestyle habits
• Current level of activity

This helps ensure any exercise plan is safe, realistic and aligned with your long-term health needs.

2. Goal Setting

Next, you’ll work together to set clear and achievable goals. These may involve:

• Reducing pain
• Increasing strength or flexibility
• Returning to sport
• Improving balance and coordination
• Managing symptoms of chronic illness

Goals form the foundation of your personalised treatment plan, ensuring every session is purposeful.

3. Physical Functional Assessments

You may undergo physical assessments to measure baseline function. These may include:

• Postural assessment
• Range of motion testing
• Strength and endurance tests
• Gait (walking) analysis
• Balance tests
• Cardiovascular fitness measures

These tools guide the Exercise Physiologist in identifying areas for improvement and monitoring progress over time.

4. Personalised Exercise Program Introduction

Depending on your condition and readiness, your Exercise Physiologist may introduce low-impact exercises during your first visit. These could include:

• Stretching movements
• Strength training
• Balance practice
• Gentle aerobic exercises
• Mobility drills

They’ll teach you correct technique to minimise injury risk and maximise results.

5. Education and Next Steps

Understanding why you’re doing each exercise is just as important as performing it. You’ll receive guidance on:

• Safe progression
• Home exercises
• Pain-management strategies
• Lifestyle improvements such as sleep, posture and pacing

Before leaving, you’ll also be guided through your treatment plan and future appointment schedule.

What Should You Bring to Your First Appointment?

To help things run smoothly, bring:

✔ Comfortable clothing and supportive footwear
✔ Any medical reports, referrals or scans
✔ A list of medications
✔ Water bottle
✔ NDIS, EPC, WorkCover or private health details (if applicable)

Final Thoughts

Your first appointment with an Exercise Physiologist is the beginning of a personalised, evidence-based journey toward better movement, improved health and increased confidence. Whether you’re recovering from injury, managing a chronic condition or working toward better fitness, the right plan can make a significant difference.

If you’re located locally, a qualified Exercise Physiologist in Epping can help you take the first step with professional support, guidance and tailored care.

FAQs

Do I need a referral?

Not always — but if you’re using Medicare, WorkCover or DVA funding, a referral may be required.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your health conditions, goals and progress. Your therapist will discuss this at your first appointment.

Is it safe if I have chronic illness or pain?

Yes — Exercise Physiologists specialise in working with chronic conditions and can safely tailor exercise to your needs.

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