Exercise Physiology Gemma Houston, AEP, ESSAM
MAppSci (Ex Rehab), BSc(HlthSpSci), Hons Gemma Houston has completed a Master of Applied Science specialising in Exercise Rehabilitation, as well as a Bachelor of Science specialising in Health and Sports Science with Honours, and has been working as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) for over six years. In addition to her clinical work, Gemma is a lecturer with Victoria University and a Practicum Placement supervisor, educating future AEPs in theoretical and clinical aspects of the profession. Previously she has had extensive work across a number of Australian Football organisations in Sydney and Melbourne (including Sandringham FC in the VFL and the AFL (NSW/ACT) Commission Ltd) , as well as at other organisations including Deakin University, Epworth Hospital and the University of New South Wales. What is Exercise Physiology? Exercise Physiology is an Allied Health profession that specialises in health, fitness and the use of physical activity and exercise for rehabilitation & chronic condition management. It is practised by Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs). You do not need a referral to undertake Exercise Physiology services, however, you may be eligible for some rebates with appropriate referrals. Please download this document for further information. Why utilise an AEP? AEPs are tertiary-qualified practitioners, and are the most highly qualified exercise professionals in Australia. They are trained to provide exercise, counselling and guidance to help manage a wide range of conditions and pathologies. These management options can include exercise programs, and can also include other strategies such as stress management, advice regarding other areas of treatment and collaboration with other health professionals. Physical activity and exercise are used to prevent and manage many of the ‘lifestyle related’ diseases that are common today including Diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol imbalances and weight management problems. Other conditions that benefit from Exercise Physiology can include: - Sub-acute & chronic pain/injuries
- Arthritis Conditions (including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis)
- Falls and Balance conditions
- Osteoporosis
- Coronary artery disease, heart attack and angina
- Chronic heart failure
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Asthma
- Stroke
- Spinal cord injury
- Acquired brain injury
- Neurological conditions including Parkinson's Disease and Multiple Sclerosis
- Cancer
- Mental health
What Services are available? Gemma provides a wide range of programs to meet a variety of needs. These services include: - Clinic-based services
Provided on-site at Leaps and Bounds Health, these services can include assessment, exercise prescription and exercise delivery - Gym-based services
If you don’t have a Gym membership, but wish to investigate a personalised Gym Program, services can be provided at a gym nearby to Leaps and Bounds.
If you have an existing membership at another facility, please discuss with your Gym if Gemma is allowed on-site to develop and administer your program as required (she has complete Professional Indemnity and Public Liability insurance to allow her to practise in Gyms). If not allowed on-site, a similar program can still be developed at the nearby gym, however, there may be some inaccuracies or minor errors due to differences in equipment setup. - Hydrotherapy
Gemma conducts Hydrotherapy services at MSAC (Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre). Most sessions are 1-on-1 or 2-on-1 (2-on-2 if suitable placement students are available to assist), while the pool is shared with public users. - Home Visits
For patients unable to come to the clinic due to mobility or distance, Gemma can undertake Home Visits. Exercise can still be done quite easily in the home, so these visits may be ideal for patients with limited mobility (such as wheelchair-based, elderly, or suffering conditions that limit walking), poor endurance that limits time outside the home, or recovering from conditions or surgery, where exposure to the outside elements may not be recommended (e.g. low immunity).
(Please Note that Home Visits attract higher fees due to the additional time required for travel and increased length of sessions.
What to expect... Assessment: All new clients are required to undergo an initial assessment, even if they have previously seen an Exercise Physiologist, or other health professional. This ensures that Gemma has a thorough understanding of your individual health conditions and needs, and can develop appropriate and personalised management strategies. The initial consultation involves a comprehensive analysis of medical history, musculoskeletal conditions and lifestyle factors (e.g. needs and wants, exercise history and/or dietary analysis). As Gemma evaluates a whole person, rather than just a presenting condition, this is required to establish how and why exercise can be best utilised in your particular situation, and to identify if further investigations or assistance may be warranted. Explanation of your condition/s and ownership of your treatment: In order to understand how to treat your condition, it is important for you to understand what your condition is, and how exercise can be included in a treatment regime. Gemma will explain your condition, and also relate this to the particular forms of exercise that will be most beneficial to your condition, and your lifestyle. From here, Gemma will assist you to identify how you can best integrate exercise into your lifestyle. Gemma may also make other recommendations to optimise your health management – this may include referrals to other practitioners, or requests to your GP for further investigation of presenting complaints. Program Delivery: After the initial assessment, Gemma will develop and deliver an exercise and education program that is specific to your needs and your lifestyle. This will take into account your health conditions, preferences for exercise, lifestyle factors and goals. The Exercises can include cardiovascular exercise, muscular strength, endurance, and flexibility exercises, home-based exercise, gym-based exercise or water-based exercise (or a combination of these!). The primary aim is to develop a program that suits your specific needs, so your input will be required in the assessment and explanation phases to ensure this happens. You will also receive advice on how to exercise safely and what to expect from your particular program. 
Self-Management: Exercise is a life-long habit. While it would be lovely to have Gemma by your side for every session you undertake, this isn’t really possible! As such, she will assist you to develop self-management strategies to help you maintain your habit. She may also advise you on further strategies to help benefit your condition/s, and also on preventative strategies for related conditions. Testimonials: “I know I have a long way to go, but you have meant that I can remain in my own home, keep some dignity and independence, and stop from slipping backwards if I had to go home just to cope. I can't thank you enough.” “And thanks again for a great training session. My GP once again mentioned today how much of an improvement she has seen due to our (your) work together!” Sarah, 34years. “Just wanted to pass on that mum has been saying that you are doing a wonderful job and that she believes you are worth every cent.” Elderly patient’s Daughter. Get started today! Click contact us to make an appointment by calling Gemma directly, or via email. leaps & bounds health is located in Malvern, less than a 15 minute drive from the Melbourne CBD. Specialists in treating back pain, foot pain, sports injury, food intolerance, weight loss and safe exercise programs. | 
