What is Exercise Physiology?
Exercise Physiology helps children and young people use movement to build strength, coordination, confidence, fitness and participation.
As an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, I assess what your child needs and create a safe, evidence-based program around their health, abilities, interests and goals.
What is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist?
An Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) is a university-trained allied health professional who uses exercise as part of health care.
AEPs complete extensive study in anatomy, physiology, health conditions, assessment and exercise prescription, and are accredited by Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA). We work with people whose health, disability, injury or developmental needs require more than a general fitness program.
For children and young people, Exercise Physiology is about more than improving fitness — it can build the physical capacity and confidence needed for school, play, sport, community and everyday life. My background in gymnastics and movement coaching shapes how I make that feel achievable and fun.
What Can Exercise Physiology Help Build?
Strength & physical capacity
Balance, coordination & gross-motor skills
Fitness & activity tolerance
Confidence in movement
Participation in school, play & sport
Safe, sustainable activity habits
Routines that support regulation & focus
Return to activity after injury
The exact goals depend on the child — what matters most is when progress leads to something meaningful in everyday life.
Exercise Physiology or Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapists and Accredited Exercise Physiologists often work with the same child at different stages, or for different parts of the same goal.
A physiotherapist may be especially helpful when a child needs assessment and treatment of pain, a new injury, post-surgical rehabilitation or a specific physical impairment.
I focus on using structured exercise to build health, capacity, strength, fitness and long-term participation — including continuing rehabilitation after the acute stage, managing a chronic condition, or helping a child build the capacity to take part in everyday activities and sport.
Some children benefit from both professions working together. The right starting point depends on your child's needs and whether diagnosis, acute treatment or longer-term exercise support is required.
When Might an Exercise Physiologist Help My Child?
Exercise Physiology may be useful when a child or young person:
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has a disability, developmental delay, neurodivergence or complex health need that affects movement or participation
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finds balance, coordination, strength or gross-motor tasks difficult
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avoids PE, sport or physical activity because it feels difficult, uncomfortable or embarrassing
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needs safe exercise support for a chronic health condition or reduced fitness
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benefits from movement to support regulation, focus or readiness to learn
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has completed acute physiotherapy but needs ongoing strength, conditioning or return-to-activity support
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is returning to sport after injury
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wants to improve physical capacity for a specific sport or activity
This isn't a diagnosis checklist — get in touch whenever you're unsure whether the service is right for your child.
What Happens in an Appointment?
The first step is understanding your child — not putting them straight into a standard exercise program.
I'll ask about your child's health, strengths, current difficulties, interests, confidence, routines and goals. Depending on the child and the reason for coming, I may observe movement, complete relevant assessments, and try a small number of activities to understand what feels achievable.
From there, I build the program around meaningful goals. Sessions may include games, gymnastics equipment, strength activities, coordination practice, circuits, skill development or structured movement routines.
You can ask questions throughout. Where useful and with your consent, I can also communicate with your child's GP, paediatrician, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, school or other supports.
A Space Where Children Can Move
Appointments are held in a dedicated gymnastics hall in Toowong. The open space and equipment let me adapt activities for different ages, abilities and goals — and it feels far less like a traditional clinical room.
Mobile appointments may also be available in selected Brisbane areas, depending on location, service needs and scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required for a private appointment — you can contact me directly. A referral or plan documentation may be needed when using a particular funding pathway.
Can Medicare help cover appointments?
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Some clients with an eligible GP Chronic Condition Management Plan may receive Medicare rebates for a limited number of allied-health services each year. Your GP decides whether a plan is appropriate — ask me about the current fee and rebate before booking.
Can I use NDIS funding?
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I work with self- and plan-managed NDIS participants. I'm not a registered NDIS provider, so I can't currently accept agency-managed (NDIA-managed) funding. Confirm your support category with your plan manager before booking.
Can I claim through private health insurance?
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Some funds provide rebates for Exercise Physiology under extras cover. Coverage and rebate amounts vary, so check directly with your fund.
How long are appointments?
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Initial assessments are around 60 minutes; follow-up sessions are 30 or 60 minutes depending on your child's needs and goals. I'll talk you through the options when you enquire.
Do you offer mobile appointments?
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Mobile appointments may be available in selected Brisbane areas, depending on location, needs and scheduling.
What should I bring?
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​I'll let you know what's needed — this may include any relevant referral or funding documents, reports, medication information, comfortable clothing, and anything that helps explain your child's goals and support needs.
What Happens Next?
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Send an enquiry and briefly describe what you'd like help with.
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I'll respond within 2–3 business days.
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We'll discuss whether Exercise Physiology seems suitable, the appointment options, and any funding questions.
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If you decide to go ahead, I'll explain what information I need before the first appointment.
Making an enquiry doesn't commit you to anything — it's simply a way to ask questions and work out whether the service fits your child and family.