Chronic health conditions affect millions of Australians, often impacting independence, mental wellbeing, and overall quality of life. While many medical treatments aim to manage symptoms, integrating lifestyle interventions—particularly through structured physical activity—can dramatically improve outcomes. One of the most effective pathways for achieving this, especially for people living with disability, is through exercise physiology.
Exercise physiologists are university-trained health professionals who design safe and effective exercise programs tailored to individual needs. For participants of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), this support is not only vital but accessible through NDIS registered exercise physiology services that specialise in long-term management of chronic health conditions.
By focusing on education, movement, and behaviour modification, exercise physiology becomes a cornerstone of preventative and rehabilitative care under the NDIS framework.
Understanding Chronic Health Conditions
Chronic diseases are defined as health conditions that are persistent or otherwise long-lasting in their effects. These include, but are not limited to:
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Cardiovascular diseases (e.g. hypertension, stroke)
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Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
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Chronic respiratory conditions (e.g. asthma, COPD)
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Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g. arthritis, osteoporosis)
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Neurological conditions (e.g. multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease)
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Mental health disorders (e.g. depression, anxiety)
These conditions not only cause physical limitations but also contribute to increased rates of hospitalisation, reduced ability to participate in work or social activities, and lower life satisfaction.
While medication and therapy often play a central role in management, exercise has been widely acknowledged as a powerful, evidence-based intervention for many of these conditions.
What Is Exercise Physiology?
Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) are allied health professionals who specialise in prescribing clinical exercise interventions for both the prevention and management of chronic diseases, disabilities, and complex health issues.
Unlike personal trainers, AEPs are qualified to work with individuals with significant medical concerns, designing programs that are tailored, safe, and often integrated into broader treatment plans. Their services may include:
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Comprehensive physical assessments
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Individualised exercise programming
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Health and lifestyle education
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Behavioural coaching
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Support for mobility, strength, and endurance
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Collaboration with GPs and other allied health providers
Exercise physiology is now considered an essential component in the ongoing care of individuals living with disabilities or long-term health concerns—particularly when supported by the NDIS.
NDIS and Exercise Physiology: How It Works
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding for Australians living with a permanent and significant disability. Among the many support services available under the scheme, exercise physiology falls within the “Improved Health and Wellbeing” and “Improved Daily Living” categories of NDIS plans.
Participants with chronic health conditions may be eligible for services if their condition directly impacts their functional capacity. Once approved, NDIS participants can access tailored interventions designed to:
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Enhance strength, flexibility, and balance
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Improve cardiovascular fitness and endurance
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Support mental health and reduce anxiety
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Maintain or regain independence in daily tasks
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Reduce the risk of injury and hospital admission
Providers of NDIS registered exercise physiology services are required to meet strict quality and safety standards, ensuring that participants receive professional and personalised care throughout their journey.
Conditions That Benefit from NDIS Exercise Physiology Support
1. Cardiovascular Disease
Exercise improves heart function, lowers blood pressure, and enhances circulation. For NDIS participants with cardiovascular disease or a history of stroke, an exercise physiologist can provide safe cardiovascular workouts that reduce the risk of secondary events.
2. Diabetes
Exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels, improves insulin sensitivity, and assists in weight management. NDIS participants with Type 2 diabetes benefit from tailored exercise programs that are aligned with dietary and medical treatments.
3. Chronic Pain and Arthritis
Chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia and arthritis, can be debilitating. Gentle, targeted exercise reduces joint stiffness, builds muscular support, and encourages the production of endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers.
4. Neurological Conditions
Individuals with neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, or Parkinson’s disease can experience improved coordination, muscle strength, and motor control with consistent exercise support. An AEP can tailor sessions to accommodate fatigue, spasticity, and mobility limitations.
5. Mental Health
Depression and anxiety often co-exist with physical health issues. Regular, structured movement helps stabilise mood, enhance sleep, and reduce stress. Exercise physiology provides a supportive and structured environment that encourages engagement and psychological safety.
The Process: What to Expect
Initial Assessment
The journey begins with a comprehensive assessment. This includes:
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A review of medical history and current medications
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Physical assessments (e.g. strength, flexibility, balance)
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Identification of functional goals
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Understanding of lifestyle habits
The goal is to develop a safe and realistic exercise plan that aligns with the participant’s daily life, abilities, and NDIS plan goals.
Individualised Program
The exercise plan may involve:
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Gym-based strength training
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Home-based functional exercises
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Pool-based hydrotherapy
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Cardiovascular activities (e.g. walking, cycling)
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Flexibility and mobility routines
Every plan is designed with adaptability in mind and can be modified as the participant’s condition evolves.
Ongoing Support and Monitoring
Regular check-ins and progress reviews ensure that the participant is moving towards their goals. Adjustments are made to keep the program effective and engaging.
For individuals living with complex needs, multidisciplinary collaboration is often key. Exercise physiologists work alongside occupational therapists, physiotherapists, dietitians, and GPs to ensure holistic care.
This collaborative approach can be seen in practices such as Redo Health (redohealth.com.au), which integrates allied health services to offer well-rounded care for NDIS participants. Their model highlights the importance of accessibility, continuity of care, and health education in long-term condition management.
How Exercise Physiology Improves Daily Life
The benefits of NDIS-funded exercise physiology extend well beyond clinical health metrics. Improvements are often seen in everyday function and quality of life, such as:
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Greater ease in completing household tasks
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Improved ability to engage in hobbies or community events
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Enhanced sleep quality and energy levels
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Increased confidence in physical abilities
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Reduction in the reliance on medications or passive treatments
Participants also gain a better understanding of how to self-manage their condition, building independence and long-term resilience.
Barriers and Misconceptions
Despite its many benefits, some barriers still prevent participants from accessing or embracing exercise physiology:
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Fear of worsening symptoms
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Misconceptions that exercise is unsafe for chronic conditions
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Lack of awareness that exercise can be modified
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Previous negative experiences with physical activity
These concerns are addressed by AEPs through education, graded exposure, and trust-building. The emphasis is always on safety, comfort, and progress at an achievable pace.
Accessing NDIS Exercise Physiology Services
To begin, an NDIS participant must have exercise physiology included in their plan under either “Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living” or “Capacity Building – Improved Health and Wellbeing.”
Once approved:
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Find a provider who is NDIS-registered and experienced in chronic health management.
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Book an initial consultation to assess suitability and begin goal planning.
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Work collaboratively with your support coordinator or plan manager (if applicable) to ensure funding allocation aligns with services required.
Some providers offer mobile or telehealth services to make sessions more accessible for participants in rural or remote areas.
Managing chronic health conditions can be challenging, but support through the NDIS makes a meaningful difference. Exercise physiology provides a safe, research-backed, and personalised path to better health, increased independence, and improved wellbeing.
Whether dealing with heart disease, diabetes, chronic pain, or neurological impairment, structured physical activity delivered by qualified professionals can transform lives. NDIS participants are encouraged to explore the benefits of working with an exercise physiologist to build strength—not just in body, but in confidence and self-efficacy.
Finding the right provider is key. Those looking for integrated, experienced care can start by contacting services such as Redo Health, which offer tailored exercise physiology for people with complex health needs.
The journey to better health starts with a single step—and with the right support, every step counts.
