Your Guide to Exercise Physiology: Benefits, Rebates, and How It Works

When it comes to improving your health, preventing injury, or managing chronic conditions, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) can be a game-changer. But what exactly do they do—and how can you make the most of private health funds or Medicare rebates to access their services?

What Does an Exercise Physiologist Do?

An Exercise Physiologist is a university-trained allied health professional who specialises in exercise prescription for health and rehabilitation. Unlike a personal trainer, an AEP works with people who may have chronic medical conditions, injuries, or special needs.

They design tailored programs that address:

• Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis
  

• Musculoskeletal issues like lower back pain or post-surgery recovery
  

• Mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression
  

• General lifestyle improvements such as weight management and mobility
  

Sessions often combine exercise guidance, education, and lifestyle coaching to help clients safely improve their physical function and overall wellbeing.

How Do They Work?

Your journey usually begins with a detailed initial consultation, where the exercise physiologist will review your medical history, current fitness level, and health goals. From there, they’ll create a structured, evidence-based plan that fits your needs—whether that’s regaining strength after an injury, managing a chronic illness, or building long-term healthy habits.

Follow-up sessions often involve supervised exercise, regular progress checks, and modifications to your program as you improve.

Claiming Through Health Funds

Many private health insurers provide rebates for Exercise Physiology under extras cover. The amount you can claim depends on your level of cover and provider. Generally, you’ll need:

1. Extras cover that includes Exercise Physiology.
   

1. To pay for your session and claim back the rebate via your health fund’s app, website, or HICAPS terminal at the clinic.
   

It’s worth checking with your insurer to see what benefits apply.

Claiming Through Medicare

Medicare rebates are available if you are referred by your GP under a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM). This plan provides up to five subsidised allied health sessions per calendar year across eligible services, including Exercise Physiology.

To claim:

1. See your GP to discuss whether you qualify for a CDM plan.
   

1. Get a referral for Exercise Physiology.
   

1. Pay for your session and claim the rebate through Medicare.
   

✅ Bottom line: Exercise Physiologists bridge the gap between fitness and healthcare. Whether you’re managing a condition, recovering from injury, or simply wanting to future-proof your health, they provide expert, tailored support—with the added benefit that both health funds and Medicare can help cover the cost.