FAQs

What is a Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP)?

“A clinical exercise physiologist can be defined as an individual who specialises in the delivery of exercise, lifestyle and behavioural modification programmes for the prevention, management and rehabilitation of chronic conditions and diseases, and injuries”    - CEPNZ (May 2019)

CEPs provide exercise prescriptions based on what the scientific evidence identifies as best practice for the management of or recovery from chronic health conditions. Being assessment driven, our prescriptions are individualized to cater to your unique needs. We aim to work symbiotically with other health care professionals involved in your recovery, and will often communicate directly with your GP or other professionals to achieve a collaborative approach. To be a registered CEP in New Zealand, individuals must have completed post graduate studies in Clinical Exercise Physiology, have completed 500+ hours of clinical work experience, and hold a valid first aid certificate. For more information about Clinical Exercise Physiology in New Zealand, please refer to https://www.cepnz.org.nz/about-us.

How do CEPs differ from a Physiotherapist?

Physiotherapists are primarily concerned with the acute (initial) stages of musculoskeletal injury or illness. Clinical Exercise Physiologists are best suited to deal with chronic (long term) health conditions. CEP’s and physios can work hand-in-hand! Exercise training with a qualified CEP provides the missing link between early rehabilitation (physio) and a graduated return to health, aiming you to get even stronger and fitter than you were before.

For more information, check out the blog post - Clinical Exercise What?

Can exercise help my specific condition?

Most likely - Yes! Exercise has been scientifically proven to assist in the prevention of, management, or recovery from a vast range of health conditions - including (but not limited to) cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, cancer, diabetes, mood disorders, neurological disorders, and chronic pain/ injury. Contact us for a chat and ask about our free initial consultation to see what we can do to help you!

What can I expect from my first exercise session?

Your first exercise session will be a run through of the program that has been designed based on your specific assessment results and the best currently available guidelines relating to your condition. As we show you through your exercises, we create a safe space for you to ask questions, and ensure that they are answered to your satisfaction. We understand that it is important that you feel 100% comfortable with your program, and we will work with you to achieve this.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on many factors; your specific diagnosis and other relevant health considerations, your current fitness level, your exercise history, (your self discipline!!). In most cases, you can expect to see results within 6-8 weeks of regular exercise (2-3 x per week), . As with all exercise however, to gain meaningful results requires dedication, effort and consistency. This is not a magic bullet! We will work with you to create a plan that suits you and your specific circumstances, providing you with the level of support or guidance that you need. Contact us to book in for a free initial consultation and see how we can help you.