Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash .
When it comes to exercise and rehabilitation, there is a lot of confusion about who does what. Should you see a personal trainer to get fitter, a physiotherapist to fix an injury, or an exercise physiologist (EP) for long-term health? Each profession has its place, but the differences matter—especially when your health is on the line.
~Keep reading if you are searching for Physiotherapists in Loganholme or Exercise Physiologists in Loganholme~
Physiotherapist (PT)
Physiotherapists are highly trained in diagnosing and treating injuries. If you’ve torn a ligament, had surgery, or are dealing with serious pain, a physio is often the first stop. They use hands-on techniques like massage, dry needling, and manual therapy, alongside rehab exercises.
The Good:
✅ Best for acute injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, and complex movement issues.
✅ Can provide hands-on treatment to relieve pain and improve mobility.
✅ Strong background in anatomy, injury assessment, and treatment.
The Not-So-Good:
❌ Hands-on therapy can feel great, but some people can become fixated on the passive therapies without understanding the importance of exercise-based rehabilitation.
Exercise Physiologist (EP)
Exercise physiologists sit between a PT and a physio, focusing on movement, strength, and rehabilitation, especially for chronic conditions/injuries, pain, and long-term health. Unlike PTs, EPs are university-trained in exercise prescription for medical conditions and injuries. But unlike physios, they can’t provide passive or hands-on treatment.
The Good:
✅ Ideal for chronic conditions (e.g., back pain, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, neurological disorders).
✅ Focus on long-term strength and correct movement mechanics.
✅ Work with patients at all fitness and ability levels, bridging the gap between rehab and performance.
The Not-So-Good:
❌ Less focus on hands-on treatment (if you want massage or dry needling, see a Physiotherapist).
❌ Cannot officially make a diagnosis if you have pain or joint conditions
Photo by Gabin Vallet on Unsplash .
Personal Trainer (PT)
Personal trainers are great at what they do—helping people get stronger, fitter, and more confident in the gym. They design workout plans, provide motivation, and can push clients towards specific fitness goals like weight loss, strength gains, or endurance improvements.
The Good:
✅ Great for general fitness, weight loss, and muscle building.
✅ Provide motivation, accountability, and structured workout programs.
The Not-So-Good:
❌ No medical training—no ability to deal with injuries or chronic conditions.
❌ Often trainers lack experience in proper movement mechanics, leading to “just push harder” mindsets that can cause injuries.
❌ No regulation—anyone can do a short course and call themselves a PT.
Who Should You See?
• Want to get fit, lose weight, or build muscle? → See a Personal Trainer.
• Recovering from an injury, surgery, or needing hands-on treatment? → See a Physiotherapist.
• Need a long-term plan for pain, strength, or chronic conditions? → See an Exercise Physiologist.
Our Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists in Loganholme are ready to see you. Call us on 07 3132 0898.
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- Exercise Physiologist vs. Physiotherapist vs. Personal Trainers
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- Dry Needling: An Effective Solution for Chronic Pain and Injury
