Often, exercise is a stepping stone on the journey to greater independence. Participating in small group sessions or exercising with a personal trainer at a gym boosts fitness levels and offers NDIS participants an alternate way to socialise.
At Bright Plan Management we’re passionate about our clients pursuing exercise-related goals under the NDIS as exercise has so many positive impacts. We’ve answered a few FAQs surrounding this topic:
What are the benefits of exercise for NDIS participants?
Safe, regular exercise can have multitudes of benefits for NDIS participants. These include:
Increased mobility and strength
Pain management
Improved self-esteem
Greater level of overall fitness
Improved mental health
What’s the difference between an Exercise Physiologist and a Personal Trainer?
Exercise Physiologists are allied health professions who have studied for at least 4 years at university and are experts in prescribing individualised exercise programs to people with disabilities.
Personal Trainers have completed a personal training course and specialise in assisting their clients to achieve their fitness-related goals.
If you are already in good health but would like to improve your fitness, a Personal Trainer is a way to go. If you are facing more complications on your exercise journey, it’s best to engage the support of an Exercise Physiologist who can help you create a safe exercise regime to achieve your goals.
It’s important to note that while the NDIS will likely fund a Personal Trainer, it’s unlikely to pay for a gym membership.
Under what category can I engage the support of an Exercise Physiologist or Personal Trainer?
Exercise supports can be engaged under ‘Improved Health & Wellbeing’ and ‘Assistance with social and community participation’ support categories, depending on the support needed. Speak to your LAC or plan manager to figure out if you can work exercise into your NDIS plan.
What should I look for when engaging an Exercise Physiologist or Personal Trainer?
Just like when engaging any other support service or allied health professional, its important to assess whether the Personal Trainer or Exercise Physiologist understands your goals.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Double-check that they understand your capacity for exercise and can clearly state a plan for your fitness journey that aligns with your goals.
Ask if they have ever worked with anyone who has similar goals and limitations as you to ensure that their methods will gel well with your goals and your level of mobility.
And finally, make sure that you feel comfortable with them! Getting back into exercise or embarking on the first step of your fitness journey can be incredibly daunting, so you want to know you’re working with someone who not only encourages and supports you but who you are comfortable communicating your barriers or boundaries with.
Want more info?
The team at Bright Plan Management have a wealth of NDIS knowledge. Reach out today to find out how we can help you manage your NDIS plan.