Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) are university qualified allied health professionals equipped with the knowledge, skills and competencies to design, deliver and evaluate safe and effective exercise services for people with chronic medical conditions, injuries or disabilities. AEPs provide support for people with:

 

  • obesity
  • cardiovascular disease
  • diabetes
  • osteoporosis and arthritis
  • mental health conditions
  • cancer and cancer recovery
  • chronic pain and fatigue
  • post-surgical rehabilitation (Anterior Cruciate Ligament [ACL]
  • reconstruction, hip/knee replacement)
  • neuromuscular exercise therapy (multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease)
  • pulmonary disease and more.

 

AEPs work in a number of environments, including but not limited to:

 

  • public and private hospital settings
  • primary, secondary and tertiary health care
  • private and multidisciplinary clinics
  • population health
  • workplace health and rehabilitation
  • ageing and aged care facilities
  • fitness centres, gymnasiums, businesses
  • sporting settings.

To gain AEP accreditation with ESSA an individual must:

• Complete a minimum four years of study in an ESSA accredited course that leads to a bachelor degree qualification
• Meet the professional standards and quality requirements mandated by ESSA for exercise science and exercise physiology.

 

AEPs are dual accredited, holding the foundation accreditation of an Accredited Exercise Scientist (AES) in addition to their AEP status.

 

To maintain accreditation with ESSA, an AEP is required to:

• Hold and maintain valid first aid and CPR certificates
• Hold and maintain appropriate professional indemnity insurance
• Complete an annual continuing professional program
• Uphold the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice