Exercise programs that change lives

From personal trainer to accredited exercise physiologist, Rhiannon Healy is shaping a rewarding career helping people achieve their health goals.

“I’d worked in the fitness industry for six years when I decided to go back to Victoria University (VU) and complete my Master of Clinical Exercise Science and Rehabilitation.

“While I enjoyed being a personal trainer, I wanted to work with more complex conditions and help people achieve goals different to the traditional reasons people go to the gym.

“I did my undergraduate degree at VU [Bachelor of Exercise Science (Clinical Practice)] and I found the course to be very in-depth, with a good mix of theory and practical work. I also found the lecturers to be supportive and approachable.

“So when I decided to come back to study after a two-year break, it was a no-brainer that VU was the place I was going to go.”

The value of practical learning 

“I found the course to be incredibly valuable. There is a large practical component, particularly for exams – which is important, as the typical role of an exercise physiologist is client-facing and thinking on your feet.

“The best things were the people I met along the way and the clinical placements. While placements can be challenging, as you’re typically working and studying at the same time, you get a great idea of the various roles available to you once you have an exercise physiology degree, as well as how different exercise physiologists interact with and treat patients.”

Making a difference in workplace health & safety

“After discussing employment opportunities with a lecturer, I was fortunate to be offered a role as an on-site exercise physiologist, and stepped into the industry immediately after finishing my course and gaining accreditation.

“My role involves injury prevention, prescribing individualised injury-management programs, and assisting organisations to effectively manage and mitigate occupational health and safety risks.”

Advancing exercise knowledge through PhD research

“I am also still a full-time student at VU completing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

“I undertook the minor thesis pathway in the masters and was lucky to be supervised by supportive and passionate researchers. Upon completion of my minor thesis, I was offered a spot in the doctoral program.

“The day-to-day involves conducting physical assessments with participants, such as exercise testing, body composition or vascular assessments, blood analysis, cell culture, writing and reading research papers, and recently I have begun the process of recruiting participants for my own study.”