The term “Exercise Physiologist” describes professionals from within the field of exercise science who have specialised into either health and fitness or exercise rehabilitation streams. As knowledge in the area of physical conditioning and rehabilitation has increased, the evolution of specialists in various fields have become apparent. The development of a specialised area in the field of exercise science has only occurred in recent years.

AAESS defines the domain of an Exercise Physiologist as matching the immediate aspirations and needs of the client with appropriate exercise interventions, and developing strategies which promote and assist in interventions being undertaken regularly for a prolonged period of time. Interventions will rarely only involve physical activity and as a consequence the Exercise Physiologist does not practice in isolation but will collaborate with other recognised health practitioners.

An Exercise Physiologist is ideally suited to providing professional services in the area of exercise as a treatment strategy in physical rehabilitation, as a preventative strategy for disease prevention, and work hardening as part of establishing and sustaining functional independence.

AAESS has developed clear skills and competencies for Exercise Physiologists.