What is a clinical exercise physiologist?
A clinical exercise physiologist is a health care professional who has studied the science of exercise and the effects it has on the bodies various physiological systems. They have not only studied health and fitness but also have education of medical conditions and how these might affect how exercise would be prescribed.
How would a clinical exercise physiologist help me?
Sometimes a referral from your doctor to the clinical exercise physiologist is necessary. Your clinical exercise physiologist would then discuss with you your medical history, your goals and what you can expect. An examination is performed that is relevant to your condition and goals for care. This information is all considered and the exercise physiologist would prescribe a specific exercise program that is safe given your medical history, and effective for improving your health, quality of life and helping you achieve your goals. When properly prescribed, exercise will benefit a wide range of conditions. It improves immune function, muscular coordination, balance and strength, coping with stress/anxiety, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, cardiovascular fitness, blood sugar regulation, and benefits quality of life.
What qualifications does a registered clinical exercise physiologist have?
Before an individual can even apply for certification she/he is required to have a masters degree in exercise science as well as hundreds of hours of experience in assessment, testing, prescription and monitoring of exercise in a wide range of patient populations (cardiac patients, stroke survivors, metabolic diseases such as diabetes, older adults, those with musculoskeletal injuries etc).