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How to Become an Exercise Physiologist: Australian Careers in Health

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What is a Exercise Physiologist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

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What is a Exercise Physiologist?

An Exercise Physiologist is an allied health professional who designs exercise programs to prevent and manage chronic disease. They work with people who have conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and arthritis. Exercise Physiologists use exercise science to improve health, restore function, and support long-term wellbeing.

Each day, Exercise Physiologists assess clients’ fitness levels and medical histories. They create personalised exercise plans based on each person’s specific health needs. They monitor progress and adjust programs to keep clients on track and motivated.

Exercise Physiologists work in hospitals, community health centres, private clinics, and sports facilities. They work alongside doctors, physiotherapists, and other health professionals. This team approach gives clients the best chance of lasting health improvements.

In Australia, Exercise Physiologists earn an average of around $107,000 a year (source: Your Career, Australian Government, 2025). Demand for this profession is rated as strong and continues to grow. As chronic disease becomes more common, qualified Exercise Physiologists are well-positioned for rewarding, stable careers.

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Career snapshots For Exercise Physiologists

Exercise Physiologists make up a growing allied health workforce in Australia. About 5,100 people are employed in this role nationally, with future demand rated as strong (source: Your Career, Australian Government, 2025). The median age is 29 and women make up 52% of the workforce.

About 62% of Exercise Physiologists work full-time. The average salary is $2,052 per week, or around $107,000 a year (source: Your Career, 2025). Entry-level roles typically start at about $65,000, rising to $120,000 or more with experience.

Exercise Physiologists work across health care, arts and recreation, and community services. Key settings include hospitals, private clinics, community health centres, and sports organisations. The growing rate of chronic disease in Australia continues to drive strong demand for qualified practitioners.

What will I do?

Exercise Physiologists plan and run exercise programs for people with chronic illness, injury, and disability. They are allied health professionals who work in hospitals, clinics, community centres, and sporting settings. Each day mixes client consults, program reviews, and teamwork with other health professionals.

  • Client assessment: Reviewing medical history, fitness levels, and health goals to build a clear clinical picture.
  • Exercise program design: Creating personalised plans based on each client’s condition, capacity, and goals.
  • Supervised sessions: Guiding clients through workouts and correcting technique to ensure safety.
  • Progress monitoring: Reassessing clients and adjusting programs based on results and feedback.
  • Client education: Teaching clients about exercise, lifestyle choices, and chronic disease self-management.
  • Team collaboration: Working with GPs, physios, and specialist doctors on shared care plans.
  • Group programs: Running sessions for clients with shared conditions such as cardiac disease or diabetes.
  • Professional development: Staying current with exercise science research and ESSA guidelines.

What skills do I need?

A career as an Exercise Physiologist requires a mix of scientific knowledge and people skills. You need a strong grasp of anatomy, physiology, and exercise science to design safe, effective programs. Good communication helps you explain complex health concepts clearly to clients and their families.

Problem-solving is central to the role. Every client has a unique medical history and set of goals. Exercise Physiologists must adapt programs as health conditions change and new assessments come in.

Empathy and patience matter just as much as technical skill. Many clients face long-term health challenges and need sustained motivation. A supportive approach helps people stay committed to their programs and see real results.

Skills/attributes

  • Knowledge of human anatomy and physiology
  • Exercise prescription and program design
  • Clinical assessment and fitness testing
  • Communication and client education
  • Empathy and interpersonal skills
  • Problem-solving and program adaptation
  • Teamwork with health professionals
  • Chronic disease management knowledge
  • Time management and record-keeping
  • Commitment to evidence-based practice
  • Client motivation and coaching
  • Proficiency with fitness assessment tools

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.