21 Jan Everyone’s an Expert – Here’s how to find a real one!

The health and fitness industry can be a bit of a minefield when it comes to finding good advice. There’s constantly new workout trends and fitness fads – many of which claim to provide magical results but lack the scientific evidence to back these claims.

So, how do you sort through all the misinformation and get the right advice? Let’s find out.

Why it’s important to get the right advice?

In the fitness industry, there’s a lot of “experts” out there. Some are doing the right thing, but sadly there are others who are providing exercise advice and guidance who aren’t qualified to do so. Exercising incorrectly for you and your health not only means you won’t get the results you’re looking for, but can increase your risk of injury.

There’s also not a one-size-fits-all approach to exercise. You’re unique and your exercise prescription should be too! It’s important to find someone who understands this, and has the knowledge and skills to specifically tailor an evidence-based exercise program for your needs.

So, who are the real experts in Australia?

At Exercise Right, we recommend getting advice from a university-qualified professional when it comes to exercise. Why? They’re more qualified! It’s that simple. They’ve studied for at least 3 years at university, have more knowledge in complex areas, and are therefore best positioned to help you!
Here’s who to see, depending on your needs:

For those wanting to improve health, well-being & fitness – Accredited Exercise Scientist (AES)

If you want to get healthier, manage your weight or prevent chronic conditions, chat to an Accredited Exercise Scientist (AES). They’ve completed a minimum of three years at university and are experts when it comes to your body and exercise. They can help you to:

• Increase your motivation and adherence to exercise
  Prescribe safe and effective exercise programs for increased performance, weight loss or general health and fitness
  Start exercising again if you’ve had a period of inactivity, or help you kick start your journey if you’re new to exercise

To find an Accredited Exercise Scientist near you, click here.

For those living with chronic conditions, injuries or illness – Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP)

If you’re living with a chronic condition (like diabetes or cardiovascular disease), have an injury or need specialist advice, then you need to chat to an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP). AEPs are allied health professionals who have completed a minimum of four years’ study at university. They specialise in using exercise as medicine to prevent, treat and manage chronic conditions and injuries.

An AEP can help you to:

• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes
• Recover from cancer treatment
• Recover from injury or surgery
• Help you to “exercise right” for your stage of life (e.g. postpartum)
• Use exercise to improve your mental health
• And much more!

AEP services are claimable under Medicare and most private health insurers. Ask your doctor for a referral or click here to find an Accredited Exercise Physiologist near you.

For those wanting to improve sporting performance – Accredited Sports Scientists (ASpS)

Are you an athlete? Whether you’re a pro or a weekend warrior, an Accredited Sports Scientist (ASpS) can help you to improve performance and minimize injury risk.

Through the use of scientific knowledge, methods and applications, an ASpS will evaluate research and provide advice on the technical and practical aspects of training, injury prevention, technique, performance, and recovery practices. Accredited Sports Scientists work at all levels of sport, including with able-bodied and para-athletes.

So, how do you know if your trainer or coach is qualified?

ASK THEM. Don’t be afraid to ask what course they studied and if they’re university-qualified. It’s important that you’re putting your health, both physical and mental, in the hands of the right exercise professional with the right qualification.

Alternatively, click here to find an exercise expert in your postcode. We have over 5,000 accredited professionals all over Australia!