Exercise Physiology: the FAQs
“What IS Exercise Physiology?”
Simply put, it is the study of exercise & movement & their effects on the human body. Exercise Physiologists are required to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field (kinesiology, exercise science, etc) to qualify for their certification exam. In order to maintain their credentials, they must also obtain continuing education on a regular basis, as well as meeting other requirements such as a current CPR certification.
Exercise physiologists:
assess medical history, current health status, movement patterns and biomechanical traits (including muscle imbalances & limitations due to injury)
develop & implement a treatment plan to safely & effectively reach client’s rehabilitation goals
treat injuries, diseases, & chronic medical conditions
communicate with your physician to advocate for you to get the care you need
practice in any state in the US (credentials are not state-specific)
Exercise Physiology care may be partially or completely covered by your HSA, or eligible for rebate by Medicare or private health insurance (depends on your specific policy & coverage; it’s always best to call your insurance provider & ask directly, as I do not bill insurance). Referrals are always welcome, but rarely required.
PRO TIP:
Always do your research before hiring a personal trainer, fitness coach, or any medical professional!
It is completely okay to ask about their credentials before entrusting them with your health & wellbeing.
Your instinct is important - your provider’s job is to help you feel safe, while challenging you in a way that promotes healing.
“How does this work? What should I expect?”
Your first visit is a consultation, where you share with me where you’re at, what’s bothering you, and what you’ve tried so far. As we talk, it will become clear whether we are a good fit, and I’ll recommend accordingly. (I’m a straightforward kind of person, so if I feel your specific situation is best served by a different health professional, I’ll advise you appropriately.) My #1 priority is that you receive the care you need and deserve.
While there is no charge for this consultation, it is still an important step in your process; it is a tangible way for you to love on your body. This might sound silly, but trust me - your nervous system will notice! Taking this small action of scheduling and attending your consultation can help to begin the process of rewiring your neural pathways, releasing tension, and decreasing pain.
Once you become a client, we do an in-depth intake session, diving into your health history and symptom details. This is where we lay the groundwork for your health journey by integrating your short and long term goals into an actionable plan. Sessions after that are primarily focused on implementing the plan through movement strategies. (Check out “The Process” section here for more info on what to expect.)
“Do you only work with women?”
Nope! I have over a decade of experience working with folks of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. All humans have pelvic floors supporting our abdominal organs, and each of them deserves to be happy & healthy. Also, I help with other body areas too; I believe the best approach is one that considers the body as a whole, rather than merely a sum of its parts. After all, most physical issues impact more than one body region.
“Do I have to go to a clinic for my exercise physiology appointments?”
You can attend all of your appointments online from the comfort & safety of your own home - no need to orchestrate childcare or hassle with a commute. All exercises I prescribe can be done without fancy gym equipment - if you already have equipment at home, I’ll also incorporate that into your program so you can be sure to use it safely and effectively. My clients love that they can share details about what they’re going through without embarrassment or fear that someone might overhear. Laughter, tears, sweatpants and leggings are all welcome! This is a judgement-free zone.
“What precautions do you take to keep my information confidential?”
STORED INFO: Your client portal is your information hub - it stores all of your documents including your health history and billing information. This portal is unique to you and can only be accessed by you and me. (Or by someone you give your login to, so please don’t share!) It is a closed system on a secure platform, meaning none of the information leaves or is visible to prying eyes. (Hint: notice the “lock” icon up top in the address bar.) While you are an active client, you can download and print documents for your records anytime you desire. If you are a past client, your portal has likely been deactivated and you’ll need to contact me (erin@erinelysefitness.com) to regain access.
SESSION CONFIDENTIALITY: All video sessions are held on Zoom, which is secure & private. I do not discuss my clients’ cases unless specifically requested by my clients. (Such as contacting a physician to obtain results from a test, etc.)
Zoom HIPAA Compliance Statement
“Where are you located?”
I live near Seattle, WA & I love connecting with folks all over the world! (If I had a superpower, it would definitely be the ability to speak & understand all languages.)