Frequent Asked Questions
What is Exercise Physiology?
Exercise Physiology is a science-based health profession that uses exercise to help prevent, manage, and treat a wide range of health conditions.
Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) are university-qualified allied health professionals who specialise in clinical exercise prescription, functional rehabilitation, and long-term health management. We work with people living with chronic or complex conditions, including joint pain, fatigue, diabetes, heart and lung conditions, neurological diagnoses, and more, tailoring exercise to support your recovery, resilience, and everyday function.
At Manuka, that means we meet you where you are, and guide you with movement that’s safe, supportive, and relevant to your goals.
What can Exercise Physiology do for me?
Exercise Physiology supports you to move with more confidence, less pain, and better health. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or simply want to feel stronger in your body, we help you build strength, reduce symptoms, and improve your quality of life, in a way that’s tailored to your unique needs.
It’s not just about exercise, it’s about sustainable, meaningful change.
What kinds of conditions do you work with?
We support people managing a wide range of health conditions, including:
-
Musculoskeletal: arthritis, osteoporosis, post-surgery rehab, joint pain
-
Metabolic: diabetes, PCOS, obesity, metabolic syndrome
-
Neurological: stroke, MS, Parkinson’s, cerebral palsy, MND
-
Neurodivergent clients and NDIS participants
-
Cardiovascular: high blood pressure, heart disease
-
Respiratory: asthma, COPD, post-COVID fatigue
-
Mental health: depression, anxiety, PTSD
-
Fatigue: chronic fatigue syndrome, burnout, myalgias
-
Ageing-related: balance, falls risk, deconditioning
If you’re unsure whether we can support you, feel free to reach out.
Do I need a referral to book a session?
No referral is required for private sessions.
If you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDMP) from your GP, you may be eligible for Medicare-subsidised sessions with an Exercise Physiologist. We also work with NDIS (self- and plan-managed), DVA, and private health funds.
How does telehealth work for exercise sessions?
Telehealth sessions are live, interactive, and tailored to your space and needs. All you need is an internet connection and a safe space to move.
At Manuka, we’ve been delivering safe, effective telehealth sessions since 2020, supporting clients across a wide range of conditions.
We tailor your program to suit your goals, environment, and energy levels, and adjust exercises in real time based on how you're feeling. For many people, telehealth offers the same quality of care with added flexibility and convenience.
I’ve just had surgery. When can I start?
Once you’ve been cleared by your surgeon or specialist, we can support your recovery with a personalised, progressive program. We commonly assist with:
-
Hip and knee replacements
-
ACL and meniscus rehab
-
Rotator cuff and shoulder surgeries
-
Pre-surgery “prehab”
-
Non-complex fractures
-
And more
Exercise programs are designed to rebuild strength, mobility, and function at your own pace.
I have persistent pain. Will this still help me?
Yes, absolutely. Persistent or chronic pain can feel unpredictable, and we understand that symptoms may fluctuate from day to day.
At Manuka, we tailor your exercise program to meet you where you are, adjusting the session based on how your body feels that day. We focus on gentle, progressive movement that helps build strength, reduce sensitivity, and improve confidence over time.
Our goal is to create a space for pain-free, sustainable movement that supports your long-term health and well-being, without pushing through pain or exacerbating any symptoms.
Do you offer NDIS-funded services?
Yes, we work with self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants, providing tailored programs for physical, neurological, and developmental needs. We adapt sessions to meet sensory, communication, and independence needs and are happy to collaborate with your support team. Telehealth and in-home services are available depending on your goals and support needs.
We also accept a range of other funding options, including:
-
Medicare (with a Chronic Disease Management Plan from your GP)
-
DVA (Department of Veterans’ Affairs)
-
Private Health Insurance (depending on your level of cover)
-
WorkCover / TAC (if pre-approved)
If you're not sure what you're eligible for, we're happy to help guide you through the options.
Do I need a referral to book a session?
No referral is required for private sessions.
If you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDMP) from your GP, you may be eligible for Medicare-subsidised sessions with an Exercise Physiologist. We also work with NDIS (self- and plan-managed), DVA, and private health funds.
What makes your sessions different from a gym or physio?
Physios, personal trainers, and Exercise Physiologists all support movement, but in different ways.
A physiotherapist typically works in the early stages of an injury, focusing on diagnosis and hands-on treatment to reduce pain and restore mobility.
A personal trainer supports general fitness but isn’t trained to manage medical conditions or injuries.
An Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) bridges the gap, working with individuals who have injuries, chronic or complex conditions, are recovering from surgery, or are seeking a more effective approach to performance.
Programs are clinical, personalised, and focused on long-term strength, function, health and individual's goals.
Do I need to be fit or flexible to start?
Not at all. You don’t need to be strong, flexible, or pain-free to begin. We tailor sessions to your current capacity and build strength, mobility, and function from there.
This is about meeting you where you are, not pushing beyond your limits.
How do I know if I’m suitable for exercise physiology sessions?
If you want to feel stronger, manage a health condition with expert guidance, or be able to do the things you love for the rest of your life, you’re likely a great candidate.
We're just one call away from answering any questions and helping you decide if Manuka is the right fit for you.