Lauren McDougallJul 6, 20182 min read
Exercise Physiology.. who what why
Updated: Mar 29, 2022
or what, why, who..
What:
What is an Exercise Physiologist? What's the difference between you and a physio? What's the difference between you and a personal trainer? An OT? Probably the questions I hear the most, and understandably too, we are pretty new.
By definition: An Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) is an Allied Health provider, who has completed a 4-year University degree. AEPs specialise in exercise therapy and lifestyle interventions for individuals with existing chronic or complex medical conditions. AEPs are referred to when working with individuals that have specific medical conditions and/or disabilities, or are at significant risk of developing medical conditions, where exercise and healthy behavioural changes are required as part of their management or prevention.
Then the why:
For young people without any obvious limitations, physical activity and exercise are beneficial for the overall health and wellbeing. But it's also beneficial for those, with a chronic health condition or disability.. assuming exercise hasn't been deemed a total no-no by a medical professional.
Depending on the particular condition, physical activity and exercise may need to be modified significantly when chronic health conditions affect physical or cognitive function:
• Modifications often include adjustment of the prescribed exercise type, intensity and volume.
• Some activities may need to be avoided because of the increased risk of injury associated with a specific condition.
• Growing and developing bodies also need consideration due to growth plates, and the overall difference to adult bodies and the physiological response to exercise.
• Some conditions may alter normal growth and development patterns. Therefore, the developmental age may not be on pace with the child’s chronological age.
• Care needs to be taken to reassure parents, and young people, who may be hesitant or nervous about exercise they perceive as too hard or risky for an individual.
• Exercise should be prescribed in a way that it not only improves health and wellbeing. When prescribed with a purpose, it can be functionally beneficial and lead to improvements in a number of other domains such as cognitive, emotional, and physiological benefits. AEP's know how.
And the who:
AEPs cover a broad range of ages and conditions at uni, and know the basics across this broad range. However, sometimes it is best to find one that specialises in a given area of interest. Not every AEP has the knowledge, patience and understanding needed to engage with younger individuals, let alone those with a disability, or additional needs. This is needed before you can even establish engagement in exercise and physical activity.
Achieving Abilities focus solely on children, adolescents and young adults with a disability so are aware of some of the challenges faced by these individuals, the physiological differences between adults and children, the stages of growth and development, as well as the impact specific conditions and disabilities can have on the body from an exercise, and non-exercise point of view. We also understand the influence of different medications that can also influence the body's function.
If you are, or know, a young person with a disability or health condition, and want some advice, get in touch today to find out how exercise physiology can help!
Lauren McDougall June 4 2026
Why movement matters more than you think (especially for kids)
If you’ve ever wondered whether your child is moving enough, you’re not alone.
For many families, “movement” can start to feel like another thing to keep up with—sports, activities, getting outside more, limiting screen time. It can quickly become something that feels like it needs more time, more energy, and more structure than you realistically have.
But movement doesn’t have to look like that.
In fact, some of the most meaningful movement for kids happens in simple, everyday ways.
Movement is more than just exercise
When we think about movement, it’s easy to picture organised sport or structured activities. But for children, movement is much broader than that.
It can look like:
- Playing in the backyard
- Dancing in the living room
- Climbing, jumping, rolling, exploring
- Walking to the car or helping carry groceries
- Getting up and down off the floor
These small, natural movements are not just “filling time”—they’re how children build the foundations for how their bodies feel and function.
It supports more than just physical health
Movement isn’t only about keeping kids “fit” or active.
It plays a role in:
- Energy levels – helping kids feel more alert and less sluggish
- Mood and emotions – supporting regulation and reducing restlessness
- Focus and attention – especially for younger children
- Confidence – as they learn what their bodies can do
Often, when a child is struggling with energy, focus, or behaviour, movement is one of the simplest places to start.
It doesn’t have to be perfect
One of the biggest barriers families face is the idea that movement needs to be done “properly” to count.
The reality is, it doesn’t.
Short bursts of movement throughout the day can be just as valuable as longer, structured sessions. There’s no need for perfect routines or high levels of motivation—especially in busy seasons of life.
What matters most is creating regular opportunities for movement in a way that fits your family.
What this can look like in real life
For many families, it’s not about adding more—it’s about noticing what’s already possible.
That might be:
- Letting kids play on the floor instead of always sitting on the couch
- Encouraging a quick game or movement break between activities
- Walking short distances where you can
- Building small moments of movement into your usual routines
These small shifts often feel more manageable—and are more likely to stick.
A gentle reminder
If things have felt a bit sedentary lately, that’s okay.
Routines change, life gets busy, and energy comes and goes. Movement doesn’t need to be all or nothing.
Starting small, and keeping things simple, is often what makes the biggest difference over time.
If you’re feeling unsure how movement fits into your child’s day, or where to start, support is there to help you find an approach that feels manageable for your family.
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