Initial Exercise Physiology Appointment – What to Expect at Move 2 Thrive

Taking the First Step Toward Better Health

Deciding to take control of your health is a powerful move—but it’s normal to feel unsure about where to begin. Working with an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) gives you the expert support, guidance, and confidence to move forward safely.

At Move 2 Thrive, our EPs are ESSA-accredited, university-qualified professionals with clinical expertise in rehabilitation, chronic disease management, and strength-based movement therapy.

We support clients across Minchinbury, Mt Druitt, St Marys, Rooty Hill, Penrith, and throughout Greater Western Sydney.

If you’ve booked your initial exercise physiology appointment, here’s exactly what to expect—step by step.

1. Getting to Know You: A Personalised Approach

Your first appointment starts with a one-on-one discussion—not a workout.

We want to understand more than just your symptoms. We want to understand you.

💬 What Your EP Will Ask:

✔️ Your daily routine and lifestyle
✔️ Current or past injuries, pain, or medical diagnoses
✔️ Medications, recent surgeries, or treatments
✔️ Any limitations, fears, or previous experiences with exercise
✔️ Your goals, preferences, and expectations

This collaborative chat builds trust and helps us design a plan that’s realistic, safe, and relevant to your life.

“We take the time to listen—because your story matters as much as your results.”
— Jeremy Pucheta, AEP & Clinic Director

2. Setting Your Health Goals

Once we know your background, we’ll help define goals that are:

✅ Specific
✅ Measurable
✅ Achievable
✅ Relevant
✅ Time-bound (SMART)

🎯 Examples of Common Goals:

Regain shoulder mobility to return to gardening within 3 months
Walk independently without a stick in the next 6 weeks
Improve fitness and reduce blood pressure with cardio-based exercise
Strengthen your legs to reduce falls at home

“As a carer for my daughter with disability, I needed guidance I could trust. Our EP made the process simple—and gave my daughter the confidence to move again.”
— Sarah, parent of NDIS participant

3. Physical Assessment: Establishing Your Baseline

Your EP will conduct a physical assessment to measure how you’re currently moving. This helps track progress and select the right exercises.

🧪 Assessments May Include:

🩺 Blood pressure and resting heart rate
📏 Range of motion and flexibility
🏋️ Strength and functional movement screening
🧍 Balance, gait, and postural analysis

💡 Example: If you’re recovering from surgery, your EP may measure your affected limb strength and compare it to the unaffected side.

Everything is explained, comfortable, and paced for your safety.

4. Your Personalised Exercise Plan

Based on your health history and assessment results, your EP will design a custom exercise plan.

This may include:

✔️ Cardiovascular activity (e.g. walking, cycling, recumbent bike)
✔️ Resistance training (using bands, machines, or bodyweight)
✔️ Stretching and mobility drills
✔️ Balance and fall-prevention training
✔️ Functional rehab (e.g. stairs, reaching, lifting safely)

📄 You’ll Leave With:

A clear exercise plan tailored to your ability and goals
Reps, sets, rest, and tips for monitoring your own progress
Modifications for home, gym, or telehealth
Confidence that your movement is safe and meaningful

5. Ongoing Support: Progress That Builds Over Time

The first session is just the beginning.

🔁 What Happens at Follow-Ups?

✔️ We reassess progress and adjust your plan
✔️ You learn new exercises as you improve
✔️ We answer questions and address setbacks
✔️ You build confidence, independence, and strength

“After my knee surgery, I didn’t know where to start. My EP helped me rebuild slowly—now I’m walking pain-free and back at work.”
— James, Move 2 Thrive client

🔎 What to Expect in Your Initial Exercise Physiology Appointment – Summary

🗓️ 45-minute session
📋 Personalised health discussion and goals
🧪 Physical testing and screening
🧠 Education on movement and rehab
📝 Written exercise plan tailored to your needs
💬 Ongoing support and progress reviews

💡 Why Work With an Exercise Physiologist?

✅ Evidence-based programs tailored to your body
✅ Help managing arthritis, diabetes, injury rehab, pain, and fatigue
✅ Motivation and guidance to stay consistent
✅ Safe strength training—especially for beginners or older adults
✅ Support for NDIS, Medicare, WorkCover, private clients & more

Want to understand the profession further?
🔗 Learn more about Accredited Exercise Physiologists via ESSA

📍 Serving Minchinbury & Greater Sydney

Move 2 Thrive Clinic operates from Plus Fitness Minchinbury, with:

🚗 Mobile EP visits across Western Sydney
💻 Telehealth for rural and remote clients
🏫 In-school support for NDIS participants
🏠 At-home therapy for aged care and mobility clients

📞 Book Your Initial Exercise Physiology Appointment Today

Whether you’re managing pain, recovering from injury, or just want to feel stronger—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

📅 Book your initial exercise physiology appointment in Minchinbury
📞 Call (02) 7229 6946 or Book Online Here

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear to my first appointment?
Activewear or comfortable clothes with enclosed shoes.

Do I need a referral?
No referral is required for private clients. NDIS, Medicare or WorkCover referrals are also welcome.

How long is the first session?
45 minutes, including discussion, assessment, education, and planning.

Can I bring a support worker or carer?
Absolutely! We welcome carers, family members, or support workers if you feel more comfortable.

02 7229 6946