YMCA Healthy Living Magazine, powered by n4 food and health Spring 2016 | Page 19

THE INS AND OUTS OF EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY I t is no secret that exercise and movement is of huge benefit to all of us. It is also no secret that some of us can’t move as well as we would like to; we may need more help, education and guidance when it comes to becoming more active. Exercising can be difficult to navigate if you haven’t been active in a while, and if you add injury or illness into that equation then it doesn’t get any easier. This is where an exercise physiologist can help. Who are exercise physiologists? An exercise physiologist (EP) is an accredited and university-qualified allied health professional, who specialises in prescribing exercise programs that are specifically designed to an individual’s goals and capacities. They are the experts in exercise education. Who do EPs work with? EPs provide a helping hand to people who struggle to move and exercise as freely as they would like. This could be due to a wide range of factors including conditions such as: • cardiac rehabilitation (hypertension, heart failure ) • neurological conditions (Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis) • metabolic conditions (diabetes, obesity) • mental health (schizophrenia, depression, anxiety) • cancer • stroke • musculoskeletal pain and injuries (arthritis, osteoporosis). What about chronic conditions? EPs typically have many skills. During their university education and the broad practical hours they need to join the profession, they learn far more than just information about exercise and movement. They have completed nutrition units, psychology units and have developed a great understanding of how different medications work in the body. All of this combined knowledge places an EP in a powerful position to help those with chronic conditions. Is exercise physiology offered in YMCA facilities? YMCA Victoria has recently collaborated with Health Team Australia to start implementing exercise physiology in 10 YMCA centres across the state. We can’t wait to see this number grow in the future. To find out how an exercise physiologist could help you become happier and healthier, book an appointment today. You can find your local YMCA exercise physiologist by phoning 1800 864 325 or emailing [email protected] DER REA IAL! C SPE Quote this article when booking and you’ll receive a free spikey massage ball upon completion of your appointment. SPRING 2016 YMCA HEALTHY LIVING MAGAZINE 19