What Does an Exercise Physiologist Do? A Guide for Bowral Locals

August 14, 2025

If you’ve ever wondered what an Exercise Physiologist does, you’re not alone. It’s a question we hear often at Cultivate Exercise Physiology in Bowral, and it’s an important one, especially if you’re dealing with a chronic health condition, recovering from injury, or looking to improve your movement, strength, and overall wellbeing.

In this blog, we’ll explain exactly what an Exercise Physiologist does, how we differ from other allied health professionals, how we work alongside other allied health professionals, and how we help people right here in the Southern Highlands.

What is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP)?

An Accredited Exercise Physiologist is a university-qualified allied health professional who specialises in using exercise to treat and manage a wide range of health conditions.

At Cultivate, our role is to help you move better, feel stronger, and improve your health through personalised exercise programs and education. We are not personal trainers. Our work is grounded in clinical evidence and designed specifically for people managing injuries, chronic diseases, or complex health needs.

What Does an Exercise Physiologist Do?

We work with people across all stages of life and health. From injury rehabilitation to chronic condition management, our approach is always tailored to the individual. That means your program is designed specifically for your body, your goals, and your current health status.

Here are some of the main areas we work in.

Chronic Disease Management

We support people living with conditions such as:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Osteoarthritis and Osteoporosis
• Mental health conditions
• Chronic pain
• COPD and asthma
• Cancer recovery

Neurological conditions.

Many of our clients in Bowral come to us through a GP Management Plan (also known as a Chronic Disease Management or CDM plan), which we fully bulk bill. 

Injury Rehabilitation and Recovery

If you’re recovering from a workplace injury, a fall, or recent surgery, we help you rebuild strength, mobility, and confidence through structured rehabilitation programs. We also support return-to-work with WorkCover and Compulsory Third Party clients.

Falls Prevention and Healthy Ageing

As we age, staying active becomes even more important. We work with all adults to improve balance, flexibility, and strength. This reduces the risk of falls and supports independence.

Exercise for Mental Health

There is growing evidence that exercise plays a vital role in managing mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. We help clients build safe and supportive movement routines that benefit both body and mind.

Working with Our In-House Exercise Physiologist: Meet Jack

One of the things that makes Cultivate Exercise Physiology unique is our truly collaborative approach to health. We’re proud to have Jack, our experienced Exercise Physiologist, as part of the team.

Jack brings a calm, client-focused approach to exercise physiology and works closely with our team to ensure you receive continuity of care from initial treatment through to long-term management.

Whether you’re suffering from a chronic condition, managing musculoskeletal pain, or rebuilding strength post-surgery, Jack can guide you through targeted, evidence-based exercise programs to aid recovery. Our Exercise Physiologists focus on restoring movement, improving function, and progressively building your capacity so you can return to the activities you love and achieve your health goals.

This team approach means better outcomes, fewer setbacks, and support every step of the way.

What Does a Session with an Exercise Physiologist Look Like?

At Cultivate, your journey begins with an initial consultation where we learn about your health history, current physical condition, and long-term goals. We may complete some basic movement assessments before designing a program suited to you.

Sessions may take place in our Bowral clinic, a gym setting, or even in your home. Each program is designed to be achievable, progressive, and aligned with your needs.

Who Do We Work With in the Bowral Community?

We work with a wide range of clients including:

• People managing chronic health conditions
• Adults recovering from surgery or injury
• Older adults wanting to maintain independence
• NDIS participants with physical or neurological needs
• Individuals referred by their GP under a CDM or Team Care Arrangement
• Workers returning to their job after time off or injury

No matter your age or health status, our goal remains the same. We want to help you move with confidence, reduce risk, and live well.

Do You Need a Referral?

You do not need a referral to see an Exercise Physiologist privately. However, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate, NDIS funding, or private health cover depending on your situation.

We are happy to guide you through your options and help make the process as smooth as possible.

Looking for an Exercise Physiologist in Bowral?

At Cultivate Exercise Physiology, we are proud to support the health and wellbeing of the Bowral and Southern Highlands community. Whether you are living with a chronic condition, recovering from an injury, or looking to improve your overall fitness, our team is here to help.

Visit our Bowral clinic or get in touch to book your first session.

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