Frequently Asked Questions
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An exercise physiologist (EP) is a university-trained allied health professional who specialises in the use of exercise to prevent and manage chronic disease, injury, and disability. We're not personal trainers - our focus is clinical, evidence-based, and tailored to your specific health needs. Think of exercise as medicine, and an EP as the person who prescribes it.
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Physiotherapists primarily focus on injury assessment and manual therapy. Personal trainers are fitness professionals working with generally healthy populations. Exercise physiologists sit in the middle. We work with people who have complex health conditions, chronic illness, injury, or disability, and we design exercise programs that are clinically informed and individually prescribed. We often work alongside physiotherapists, GPs, and other health professionals as part of your broader care team.
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Absolutely not! In fact, most of my clients come to me precisely because exercise feels hard, scary, or impossible right now. Whatever your starting point, we begin there. There is no minimum fitness level required.
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I work across a wide range of conditions including chronic disease, women's health, injury rehabilitation, healthy ageing, and oncology exercise. A full list is on the Services page but if your condition isn't listed, please get in touch anyway. If I can't help, I'll do my best to point you in the right direction.
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Your first session is an initial assessment - a chance for us to get to know each other and for me to understand your health history, current medications, lifestyle, goals, and any concerns. There's no pressure to perform or push yourself. We'll talk through what you're hoping to achieve and I'll start building a picture of what a program might look like for you. Most people leave feeling relieved that it was much more relaxed than they expected.
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This varies depending on your situation and goals. Some clients see me weekly, others fortnightly, and some move to a more independent program with occasional check-ins once they're confident. We'll work out a frequency that suits you both practically and financially.
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No - you're welcome to contact me directly without a referral. However, if your GP has issued a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDMP), this may entitle you to Medicare rebates on your sessions, so it's worth asking your doctor if you're eligible. Some private health insurance policies also cover exercise physiology - check with your insurer for details on your level of cover.
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Currently accept Medicare EPC referrals, private health insurance, and self-funded clients. NDIS funding may also be available depending on your plan and goals - get in touch to discuss whether this could apply to you.scription
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I don't bulk bill, but Medicare rebates apply for clients with an EPC referral, which reduces the out-of-pocket cost. Get in touch to discuss what this might look like for your situation.
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I'm based in the Sutherland Shire and see clients throughout the Sydney metro area — get in touch if you're not sure whether I cover your area.
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Yes - telehealth consultations are available and work really well for initial assessments, program reviews, and clients who prefer to exercise at home independently. If you're not sure whether telehealth is right for your situation, we can talk it through.
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Very little - I bring equipment with me for home visits. Comfortable clothing and a clear space to move around in is usually all you need. If your program requires specific equipment over time, we'll discuss that together.
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Absolutely. Many clients enjoy outdoor sessions in their local park or community space, and for some people this is a big part of what makes exercise feel enjoyable rather than like a chore.
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Oncology exercise refers to exercise programs specifically designed for people living with cancer - at any stage, from diagnosis through treatment and into survivorship. The evidence supporting exercise in cancer care is strong and growing, with research showing benefits for fatigue, mental health, strength, treatment tolerance, and quality of life.
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Yes — with the right guidance. Exercise during treatment needs to be carefully tailored to your current situation, treatment type, and how you're feeling from week to week. I work closely alongside your medical team to ensure your program is safe and appropriate at every stage.
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It's never too late. Many cancer survivors find that exercise plays a significant role in rebuilding strength, managing long-term treatment effects, and reclaiming a sense of wellbeing after a really difficult chapter. Wherever you are in your journey, there's a place to start.