News Story

"There is a growing niche for Exercise Physiologists," said UNSW Associate Professor Steve Boutcher, the Head of the Health and Sports Science program, in the School of Medical Sciences.

"Doctors try to cure health problems, physiotherapists try to cure pain and gym instructors try to improve fitness, but typically these professionals are not trained to take a holistic approach to lifestyle," said Professor Boutcher. "That is where Exercise Physiologists come in. They attempt to improve lifestyle armed with skills in a range of areas including preventative medicine, exercise science, healthy nutrition and biomechanics."

The Australian Association of Exercise and Sports Science (AAESS), which is a professional organisation for tertiary trained exercise science practitioners, is currently negotiating with governments to have Exercise Physiologists recognised alongside Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists in the hospital system.

"Australians are getting fatter and less physically active every year," said Professor Boutcher. "Exercise Physiologists can play a central role in reversing this epidemic by helping people change their lifestyles."

The School's four-year Health and Sports Science degree qualifies graduates to work as an accredited Exercise Physiologist.

The students also run the Healthy Lifestyle Clinic at UNSW, which is believed to be the only centre of its type in Australia. The Clinic offers detailed fitness and lifestyle assessments and lifestyle change programs. More information about the Clinic and its services will be available on this website during 2005.

"Although it is not a "quick-fix", we have had some dramatic results from the five week program," said Professor Boutcher. "Participants have reported big improvements by incorporating changes in physical activity, health habits and diet, in addition to what they already do."

Contact details: UNSW Associate Professor Steve Boutcher, Health and Sports Science Program 0412 758 737; Susi Hamilton, UNSW Media unit, tel. 9385 1583 or 0422 934 024, email susi.hamilton@unsw.edu.au