What’s the Difference Between Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology?
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Should I see a physio or an exercise physiologist?” — you’re not alone. Both professions often work with the same types of clients and both use exercise as part of their treatment. But their qualifications, the way they’re regulated, and the problems they focus on are actually quite different.
Understanding those differences can save you time, money, and frustration — and most importantly, help you get the right care when you need it.
Physiotherapists at a glance
Physiotherapists are AHPRA-registered health professionals. That means they can:
● Assess and diagnose injuries and movement problems
● Create and deliver a treatment plan
● Use hands-on techniques (such as joint mobilisation, massage, or taping)
● Guide your rehab through exercise and education
In other words, if you’ve just hurt yourself, had surgery, or have pain that hasn’t been explained yet, a physio is usually your first port of call.
What an Exercise Physiologist does
Exercise physiologists — often called EPs or Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) — are university-trained and accredited through ESSA. Unlike physiotherapists, they don’t do manual therapy or provide a diagnosis. Instead, they specialise in:
● Designing individualised exercise programs for people with chronic conditions (such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, or mental health concerns
● Supporting safe return to activity after injury or illness
● Helping people make long-term lifestyle changes to improve function, confidence, and quality of life
You’ll often see EPs working in private practice, community health, aged care, and NDIS settings.
Where they overlap
Both professions are movement experts. Both use exercise as a key tool. And often, they’ll work together on the same client.
Think of it like a rehab pathway:
● The physio gets you moving safely in the early or painful stages.
The EP keeps you moving in the long run, making sure you stay strong, resilient, and able to manage your condition or lifestyle goals.
Who should you see first?
Here’s a quick guide:
● See a physiotherapist if: your problem is new, painful, or you’re not sure what’s wrong. They can diagnose and treat from day one.
● See an exercise physiologist if: you already have a diagnosis or long-term condition, and you want a safe, structured plan to build strength, manage symptoms, and prevent flare-ups.
In many cases, you might start with a physio and then transition to an EP as you move from short-term recovery to long-term maintenance.
Real-world examples
● Rolled ankle on the weekend? A physio should assess it first to check for ligament or bone involvement. Later, an EP can build a program to reduce your risk of re-injury.
● Managing diabetes and knee pain? An EP can design a safe exercise plan to improve blood sugar control, build strength, and support weight management — while working with your physio if pain needs hands-on care.
● Recovering from a hip replacement? A physio will guide you through the early post-op rehab. Once you’re cleared, an EP can help you keep progressing and get back to hobbies and everyday life.
Bringing it all together
The truth is, physiotherapists and exercise physiologists aren’t in competition — they complement each other. Physios shine when it comes to diagnosis and acute care. EPs are the experts in exercise for long-term health, chronic conditions, and lifestyle change.
If you’re still unsure who to book with, it’s usually safest to start with a physio. But if you’re looking for an ongoing, supportive exercise program to manage your health or return to full function, an EP could be the perfect fit.
At Movement Therapy EP, we specialise in that long-term journey — helping people build confidence, manage conditions, and live stronger, healthier lives through tailored exercise. If that’s what you’re looking for, we’d love to help you take the next step.
