If your child has an NDIS plan, you may have seen exercise physiology listed as a support and wondered what it actually involves. In simple terms, NDIS exercise physiology uses movement, play and structured exercise to help children and teenagers build strength, coordination, fitness and confidence. It is delivered by university-qualified exercise physiologists who understand how children develop and know how to make sessions fun, safe and goal-focused.
This guide explains what NDIS exercise physiology is, how funding works, who it can help, what sessions look like, and how families in Campbelltown can get started. If you are comparing therapies or preparing for a plan review, it will help you ask the right questions and understand what to expect.
What Is NDIS Exercise Physiology?
Exercise physiology is a movement-based allied health service. An exercise physiologist assesses how your child moves, how strong and fit they are, and which everyday activities they find difficult. From that assessment, they design an exercise program built around your child’s goals, interests and abilities. Sessions may include strength exercises, balance and coordination games, stretching, aerobic activities and practising real-life skills such as climbing stairs, riding a bike or joining in sport at school.
Unlike general fitness training, exercise physiology is clinical. Programs are tailored to your child’s diagnosis, developmental stage and medical needs, and progress is measured over time. For children, sessions are almost always play-based, because children learn and persist best when they are enjoying themselves. A good exercise physiologist will also give your family simple activities to practise at home between sessions.
How Does the NDIS Fund Exercise Physiology?
Exercise physiology is usually funded from the Capacity Building part of your child’s NDIS plan. Depending on your child’s goals, funding most often sits in the Improved Health and Wellbeing category, which supports exercise advice that helps manage the impact of disability, or in Improved Daily Living, which covers therapies that build everyday skills. Your exercise physiologist can help you work out which category applies and what reports the NDIA needs.
Funding can be used whether your child’s plan is NDIA-managed, plan-managed or self-managed, as long as the support relates to their NDIS goals. Iconic Care Group is a registered NDIS provider, so families with NDIA-managed plans can access our services directly. Sessions and reports are claimed against the relevant line items, and our team can explain exactly how this works before you start.
Who Can Exercise Physiology Help?
Exercise physiology can support children and teenagers with a wide range of needs, including autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, Down syndrome, obesity and diabetes. It can also help children who are simply less active than their peers, who tire easily, or who avoid physical activity because movement feels hard or uncomfortable.
Common goals include:
- Building strength and endurance
- Improving balance, coordination and motor planning
- Increasing participation in sport, play and physical education
- Managing weight and building healthy habits
- Improving confidence and independence
Because programs are individualised, they suit children of all abilities, from those taking their first steps to teenagers training for a school sport team.
What Do Exercise Physiology Sessions Look Like?
Sessions usually start with an assessment. The exercise physiologist will talk with you and your child, watch how they move, and test strength, balance and fitness in a relaxed, encouraging way. Together, you will set clear goals, such as walking further without tiring, joining a dance class, or climbing playground equipment independently.
Follow-up sessions are typically 45 to 60 minutes and take place at our Campbelltown clinic, at home, or at school where suitable. Sessions mix structured exercises with games and activities your child enjoys, and the program is adjusted as your child grows stronger. Exercise physiology often works alongside other supports such as occupational therapy, and parents and carers receive updates and a home program so progress continues between sessions.
How to Get Started in Campbelltown
Getting started is straightforward. Contact Iconic Care Group to discuss your child’s needs and NDIS plan, and we will check the relevant funding, explain the next steps, and arrange an assessment. We support families across Campbelltown and nearby suburbs, including Minto, Oran Park, Leppington, Gregory Hills, Ingleburn and Narellan. If you would like to learn more about our clinic-based service first, read about our paediatric exercise physiology in Campbelltown.
You do not need a referral to enquire, although a referral from your GP, paediatrician or support coordinator can be helpful. Bring your child’s NDIS plan to the first appointment if you have it, along with any recent reports from other therapists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the NDIS cover exercise physiology for children?
Yes, when it relates to your child’s NDIS goals. Funding usually comes from the Capacity Building budget, most often under Improved Health and Wellbeing or Improved Daily Living. Our team can check your child’s plan and confirm what is covered.
How many exercise physiology sessions will my child need?
It depends on your child’s goals and needs. Some children attend weekly for a block of sessions, while others need less frequent support with a strong home program. Your exercise physiologist will review progress regularly and adjust the plan as your child improves.
Can exercise physiology sessions happen at school?
Yes, where suitable. Sessions can take place at our Campbelltown clinic, at home, or at school, so strategies can be practised in the setting where your child needs them most. Talk to our team about which option suits your child best.