Exercise Physiologist or Physiotherapist… Who Should You See?

Sometimes people wonder if Exercise Physiologists (EPs) and Physiotherapists (physios) are the same. We both hold important roles within the healthcare and rehabilitation space, and our scopes of practice often overlap; a key difference is the way we treat the person.

The Exercise Physiologist

Exercise Physiologists are university-qualified health professionals who specialise in using exercise (or movement) as treatment, along with clinical education to support long-term management of a condition. EPs use clinical skills and understanding to provide individualised treatment plans aimed at restoring function, improving capacity, promoting self-efficacy in managing conditions and making lifestyle changes to minimise the risk of chronic disease.

An EP’s treatment is grounded in evidence-based exercise rehabilitation, lifestyle education, and behaviour change strategies.

The Physiotherapist

Physiotherapists are university-qualified health professionals who assess, diagnose, treat and manage conditions, disabilities, injuries and disorders that affect the movement and function of the body. They utilise clinical skills and understanding to make a just diagnosis and treatment plan for the individual to restore function. Treatment may involve:

• Manual therapy (such as massage or joint mobilisation)
• Dry needling or taping
• Exercise-based rehabilitation
• Education
• Recommendations for equipment to support the individual’s condition

Their main goal is to restore movement and reduce pain so the individual can safely return to their usual activities.

Shared Ground

First and foremost, we both want the individual to recover from or better manage their condition/s. Both Physiotherapists and Exercise Physiologists complete a minimum 4-year university degree and are required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of professional development each year to stay current with research and expand their skillset. Their purpose; to offer a specialised service and provide you with the best treatment possible.

Both professions…

• Strive to use evidence-based rehabilitation strategies to provide safe and effective treatment for the individual
• Conduct thorough assessments to inform treatment
• Provide exercise supported by research to promote movement
• Educate clients to support understanding and effective management of their condition/s

Key differences

Physiotherapists and Exercise Physiologists are regulated by different bodies: Physiotherapists by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and EPs by Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA).

Physiotherapists can provide a diagnosis; EPs refer concerns to a physiotherapist or doctor for further evaluation.

Physiotherapists can directly refer clients for imaging; EPs refer clients to their GP with imaging recommendations

Physiotherapists use hands-on methods (e.g., massage, acupuncture); EPs focus on movement-based modalities specific to the client’s needs

Physiotherapists are typically involved in early injury and post-surgery recovery; EPs typically see them after this stage to bridge the gap between rehabilitation and long-term health

Working Together

A scenario on how we work together within a musculoskeletal context:

Albert is scheduled for total knee replacement surgery in 8 weeks. His specialist recommends prehabilitation to improve post-surgery outcomes. Albert sees an Exercise Physiologist to build strength and function before surgery. He shows excellent improvement, and the specialist is pleased.

After surgery, a Physiotherapist begins Albert’s rehabilitation, assisting with walking, gentle joint mobilisation, and passive treatments. In the early weeks, Albert works closely with the physiotherapist to reduce swelling, restore joint movement, and retrain his walking pattern. Through hands-on treatment and early-stage exercises, the physio helps Albert regain basic function and confidence.

As Albert progresses, he resumes sessions with the Exercise Physiologist. These focus on rebuilding leg strength, improving balance, and increasing his capacity to move independently. The EP designs a progressive program tailored to Albert’s abilities, monitors his response, and teaches him how to exercise safely at home.

By working together, Albert’s care team ensures his recovery is not just short-term. With ongoing support from the EP, Albert continues to improve his fitness, reduce pain, and enjoy activities he thought he’d never do again – like playing golf or gardening pain-free.

Final word

Exercise physiologists work with a broad range of individuals with chronic health conditions (e.g., metabolic diseases, mental health, cardiovascular). Physiotherapists also work with these people, but their focus is primarily on neurological and musculoskeletal conditions. Ultimately, both professions are composed of highly qualified healthcare professionals. You can trust them to have the knowledge and skills necessary to help you return to – or continue doing – what matters most to you.

– Written by Stephen Theodorou, Accredited Exercise Physiologist (ESSA) and Craig Newman, Clinical Lead and Accredited Exercise Physiologist (ESSA)

Ready to take the next step in your recovery? Book a session with Stephen or Craig today and start moving better, for good. – Link

If you are interested in further information related to this article;

Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) – Scope of Practice – https://australian.physio/tools/clinical-practice/scope-practice

Exercise and Sports Sciences Australia (ESSA) – Scope of Practice – https://www.essa.org.au/Web/Resources/Standards/aep-scope-of-practice.aspx

Total Knee Replacement – https://e3rehab.com/total-knee-replacement-rehabilitation/

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I see a physiotherapist or an exercise physiologist first?

If you’ve just injured yourself or had surgery, a physiotherapist can help in the early recovery phase. For return to and further development of capacity and ongoing strength, prevention, and chronic conditions, an exercise physiologist is ideal.

Can an exercise physiologist help with chronic pain?

Yes – exercise physiologists use evidence-based exercise to reduce pain sensitivity, improve function, and build confidence with movement. Evidence shows that movement or exercise is highly beneficial for recovery as compared to passive treatment options e.g. massages

Do I need a referral to see an exercise physiologist?

No – it is not necessary if you choose to a private appointment, but your GP can refer you under a chronic disease management plan if you are eligible

How is an Exercise Physiologist different from a personal trainer?

While both promote fitness, EP’s have a university degree and clinical expertise to train and work with people who have chronic health conditions, injuries, or disabilities. Personal trainers typically work with healthy populations to improve general fitness or performance, however, some personal trainers are excellent and can support people with chronic diseases as well.