Key points
- Check the practitioner’s qualifications and local scope before choosing a service.
- Discuss your activity, goals, health context, home setup and access needs.
- Agree what can be assessed safely by video and when another format is needed.
Explore online physiotherapy
Review the service overview and discuss suitability before making a request.
Explore the related serviceCheck the practitioner’s role and scope
Ask about the practitioner’s qualifications, registration or accreditation and the services permitted where you live. In Australia, Exercise & Sports Science Australia describes Accredited Exercise Physiologists as supporting assessment and exercise prescription or adaptation, including appropriate digital practice. That scope applies to its accredited profession and should not be assumed to describe every exercise physiologist title worldwide. [1] The professional should explain whether your question fits their role and when another clinician should be involved.
What a remote assessment may discuss
An initial conversation may cover your current activity, health history, daily tasks, goals, previous experience and restrictions already discussed with your healthcare team. The practitioner may also ask about your home space, equipment, internet connection and communication needs. ACSM’s Exercise is Medicine guidance recommends assessing physical activity, using appropriate preparticipation screening and referring people to qualified exercise professionals or resources. [2] These steps support thoughtful decisions; they do not mean everyone needs a test or should follow the same routine.
Agree on a safe plan and follow-up
Ask what the practitioner can assess remotely, what information is missing, how to pause and what would prompt an in-person or medical review. WHO activity recommendations describe population-level guidance, not a personal plan for every condition or recovery stage. [3] Use only movements the practitioner has selected for you, and do not test balance, lift heavy objects or use unfamiliar equipment for the camera. Keep a stable support nearby if already recommended. Stop if you feel unwell or unsafe. Sudden severe symptoms or an emergency concern need local urgent or emergency services, not a scheduled exercise visit.
Prepare for an exercise physiology video visit
- 01
Check credentials
Confirm the practitioner’s qualifications and local scope of practice.
- 02
Share relevant context
Discuss your activity, goal, health instructions and access needs.
- 03
Agree on safe limits
Clarify what can be reviewed remotely and when another assessment is needed.
Before you make a request.
01Is an exercise physiologist the same as a physiotherapist?
No. Roles and credentials differ. Ask what the practitioner is qualified and authorised to provide in your location.
02Will I be tested on camera?
Not necessarily. The practitioner should explain any assessment and its safety; you can pause or decline a movement.
03Can I use WHO activity targets as my personal plan?
Not automatically. Ask a qualified professional how population guidance applies to your circumstances.
Evidence behind this guide.
- 01Accredited Exercise Physiologist Scope of Practice
Exercise & Sports Science Australia
- 02Health Care Providers’ Action Guide: Exercise is Medicine
American College of Sports Medicine
- 03WHO guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviour
World Health Organization · 2020