The field of exercise physiology has grown in recent decades. The global rise in chronic disease has resulted in an increased need for professionals who can help patients manage their health conditions. In addition, athletes at all levels benefit from working with exercise physiologists to help them reach their maximum potentials.
Almost anyone who wants to achieve optimal health will benefit from working with an exercise physiologist. In this article, we’ll explore the role of an exercise physiologist and how they help clients reach their health goals.
What Is the Role of an Exercise Physiologist?
An exercise physiologist understands how the body responds to physical activity over time. With this knowledge, they can prepare comprehensive fitness plans to address the specific needs of a client. Exercise physiologists focus on developing the cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility of their patients.
The outcomes of their work vary based on the needs of the client. For some, an exercise physiologist helps patients manage or prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and pulmonary disease. For others, they may develop a fitness plan to help a person achieve a personal goal, such as running a marathon or simply adopting a healthier lifestyle.
The primary goals of an exercise physiologist when working with patients include:
- Managing a chronic disease
- Reducing the risk of developing a chronic disease
- Educating clients about how to exercise properly
- Coaching clients to make positive, healthy lifestyle changes
The Top 4 Benefits of Working with an Exercise Physiologist
If you have a chronic disease, your health care professionals have likely informed you of the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Staying active and eating well can have significant impacts on the body’s ability to function properly and fight disease.
While many people understand the “why” behind this advice, they don’t have the knowledge or confidence to execute a fitness plan on their own. This is where the expertise of an exercise physiologist comes into play.
There are many upsides to working with an exercise physiologist. To find out if exercise physiology is the right service for you, read on to learn about four of the top client benefits of working with an exercise physiologist.
1. Exercise Education
It is critical that you use the proper form when performing any exercise. Incorrect form can result in injury and deter you from continuing on a fitness plan. An exercise physiologist has specialised knowledge of the human body and exercise techniques that will help you achieve optimal performance during your workouts.
2. Disease Prevention
One of the most significant indicators of chronic disease is being overweight. Starting a fitness routine under the guidance of an exercise physiologist will help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight. By doing this, you are putting your body in the best position to fight chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
3. Disease Management
If you are one of the millions of people globally who have at least one chronic disease, establishing a fitness program is essential. An exercise physiologist will help you understand your disease and devise a customised workout plan to address your unique needs. This tailored approach can have faster and more effective results in managing the symptoms of a chronic disease.
4. Lifestyle Education
An exercise physiologist provides more than a comprehensive workout plan. Your practitioner will help you gain the confidence, motivation, and knowledge to embark on your fitness journey with strength. They can help you hold yourself accountable to the goals you have set, making the work with an exercise physiologist more effective than if one were to do it on their own.
Turramurra Physiotherapy has just hired a new exercise physiologist. If you require guidance with your health goals, contact our team today. Together, we can help you bounce back from injury or simply achieve a higher state of health.
