Celebrating World Clinical Exercise Physiology Day

On 23 September 2025, we celebrate World Clinical Exercise Physiology Day, a chance to highlight the vital role Exercise Physiologists (EPs) play in promoting health, preventing disease, and enhancing quality of life.

A common misconception is that EPs only work with athletes. In reality, they support people of all ages and health backgrounds. EPs are trained to understand how the body responds to physical activity, and their expertise is particularly valuable in the management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. They also play a crucial role in preventing injury, supporting healthy ageing, and helping people regain independence through movement.

UDRH SW is proud to be expanding placement opportunities for Exercise Physiology students across the South West. These placements play a vital role in building a skilled rural workforce, and 2025 has already seen exciting growth across the region. More students are taking up rural opportunities, and more clinical sites are stepping up to support them, strengthening the future of healthcare in the South West.

Looking ahead, UDRH SW is working hard to develop the BASIS Clinic, with the goal of developing collaborative placements for Exercise Physiology students alongside Occupational Therapy Students. Placements provide practical experience in rural healthcare, allowing students to apply their knowledge, explore interdisciplinary care all while making a meaningful impact on the community.

UDRH SW Discipline Advisor for Exercise Physiology, Ben Avery, plays a key role in supporting placements across the region while also running his own mobile exercise rehabilitation service, GeoBay Exercise Rehab. His dual role reflects the strong link between education, practice, and community health in the South West.

As the demand for rural health services continues to grow, so too does the need for highly skilled Exercise Physiologists. By expanding placement opportunities and celebrating their impact, UDRH SW is helping to strengthen the health workforce and improve outcomes for communities across the South West.