Your First Session with an Exercise Physiologist: What to Expect

August 14, 2025

A Simple Guide for Bowral Locals New to Exercise Physiology

Starting something new can be intimidating, especially when it involves your health. At Cultivate Exercise Physiology in Bowral, we understand that taking the first step to book an appointment can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with pain, fatigue or a long-term health condition.

Whether you've been referred by your GP, managing a chronic illness or simply want to move better and feel stronger, we're here to make the process comfortable, supportive and personalised.

Here’s what you can expect at your first session with one of our Accredited Exercise Physiologists.

Before You Arrive

After booking your appointment, you may be asked to complete a short pre-screening form to help us understand your health history and goals. This can include medical conditions, current medications, past injuries and your reason for seeking support.

You don’t need to prepare anything special. Wear comfortable clothes you can move in, bring any relevant paperwork or referrals and feel free to jot down any questions or concerns you'd like to discuss.

Step 1: Getting to Know You

Your first session is all about building a clear picture of your current health and where you’d like to go. We’ll sit down with you and take the time to understand:

• Your medical history and any diagnosed conditions
• Symptoms or pain you’re currently experiencing
• Your movement patterns, energy levels and lifestyle
• Any past injuries or treatments
• What you hope to achieve by working with us

This part of the session is relaxed and conversational. There’s no rush. Our priority is making sure you feel heard and understood.

Step 2: Functional Movement Assessment

Next, we’ll guide you through a light physical assessment. This isn’t a workout and there’s no pressure to perform. We’ll simply observe how your body moves, your balance, posture, strength and mobility through a variety of difference tests. 

This helps us identify any areas of concern and tailor your program accordingly. Every assessment is adapted to suit your ability, comfort and needs.

Step 3: Program Planning

Using everything we’ve learned, your Exercise Physiologist will begin to map out a safe and effective exercise plan just for you. This plan will focus on:

• Improving movement quality
• Building strength, balance or endurance
• Reducing pain or fatigue
• Supporting recovery or long-term health goals
• Helping you return to daily activities or work with confidence

We’ll discuss how and where your sessions will take place, whether in our Bowral clinic, at home or in a gym setting. We also take into account how much time you realistically have to commit each week and how exercise fits into your life.

Step 4: Next Steps

After your first session, you’ll leave with a clear understanding of your plan and what comes next. You won’t be given a generic printout or asked to follow a routine that doesn’t suit you. Everything we do is customised, evidence based and focused on helping you progress at your own pace.

Many clients find this first session surprisingly reassuring. It’s not about pushing your limits or testing you. It’s about starting where you are and building from there with the right support.

Common Questions About Your First Appointment

Do I need a referral?
Not necessarily. You can see us privately at any time. If you have a GP Management Plan or are funded through NDIS, DVA, WorkCover, Compulsory Third Party or private health insurance, we’ll help you navigate your options.

Will I need to exercise in the first session?
Possibly, but only gentle movement. The focus is on assessing, not training. If anything feels uncomfortable, we’ll adjust accordingly.

What should I bring?
Any referrals, scans, reports or relevant paperwork. Wear comfortable clothing and closed in shoes. Water is a good idea too.

Ready to Start?

At Cultivate Exercise Physiology, we pride ourselves on making your first session feel welcoming, informative and supportive. Whether you’re living with a chronic condition, recovering from injury or just looking to improve your health, we’re here to help you take the first step with confidence.

Located in Bowral and supporting clients across the Southern Highlands. We even offer mobile services.

Book your first session or get in touch if you’d like to chat with one of our team members before getting started.

Take the first step to recovery
As part of our commitment to providing exceptional Exercise Physiology services and support to our valued clients, our team travel to some fantastic locations in the Southern Highlands, South West Sydney and Illawarra.
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