In exercise physiology, interventions go beyond exercise routines—they include health and physical activity education, personalised advice and support, and lifestyle modification strategies designed to promote long-term behavioural change. Practitioners play a crucial role in guiding you through these processes, offering the expertise and structure needed to help you achieve your goals.
However, the idea that weekly appointments are essential for progress isn’t always accurate. Here are some reasons why in many cases, less frequent visits combined with a well-structured plan and a focus on empowering you to take control of your health can lead to even better outcomes.
1. Allowing Time for Adaptation
Physiological changes don’t happen overnight. No matter what your goals may be, your body needs time to adapt to the demands placed upon it. Weekly visits may not be necessary if you’re diligently following your program.
In fact, more time between sessions can allow you to gauge how your body is responding. You’ll notice what’s working, identify areas for improvement, and have meaningful insights to share during your next appointment. This feedback helps your practitioner adjust your plan effectively.
2. Encouraging Independence
A crucial goal of any exercise physiology program is to foster your ability to self-manage. Over-reliance on weekly appointments can unintentionally create dependency, leaving you feeling unsure about how to proceed on your own. By spacing out sessions, you’re given the opportunity to practice self-motivation, refine techniques, and develop a deeper understanding of your body’s response to exercise.
Independent work also enhances your confidence. Completing your program without direct supervision proves that you can stay consistent and adapt as needed. This autonomy is an essential life skill that extends beyond the confines of structured appointments.
3. Cost-Effectiveness
For many people, the cost of weekly visits is a barrier to long-term engagement. By reducing the frequency of appointments, you can make the process more affordable while still achieving great results. It is always worthwhile discussing this with your exercise physiologist to see what options are available. For example, semi-supervised group classes provide the opportunity to have increased independence completing your program in a supervised environment, and in most cases is more cost effective than individual consultations.
5. Building Habits in Your Environment
Your outcomes largely depend on what you do outside of your appointments. Building healthy exercise habits within your regular environment is far more impactful than relying solely on practitioner-led sessions. You’ll notice better outcomes if you consistently apply the knowledge and skills you’ve gained during your appointments to your daily life.
By practicing independently, you develop sustainable routines that help you maintain progress long after your sessions with a practitioner have concluded.
When Weekly Visits Are Necessary
While there are many benefits to spacing out appointments, there are situations where weekly or even more frequent visits are appropriate:
- Complex cases: If you have a significant injury, chronic condition, or complex rehabilitation needs, closer monitoring might be required.
- New programs: When starting a new exercise plan, weekly visits can help ensure you’re performing exercises correctly and safely.
- Accountability: Some individuals benefit from regular appointments to stay motivated and on track, particularly in the early stages.
Your practitioner will assess your specific needs and recommend the appropriate frequency of visits accordingly.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Appointments
If you’re not seeing a practitioner weekly, here are a few strategies to stay on track:
- Keep a journal: Track your workouts, progress, and any challenges you encounter.
- Communicate: If you’re unsure about something or encounter a problem, don’t hesitate to reach out to your practitioner between visits.
- Stay consistent: If you feel like skipping your exercise for the day, remind yourself of your long-term goals. It takes time to learn what works best for you to stay motivated, so show yourself some compassion here.
- Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge the progress you’re making, no matter how small.
The Bottom Line
Achieving the best outcomes for your health and wellbeing doesn’t always require weekly appointments. By prioritising self reflection, practicing independence, and staying consistent with your program, you can make meaningful progress while maintaining flexibility in your schedule and budget.
Of course, everyone’s journey is unique. Collaborate with your exercise physiologist to determine the best appointment frequency for your goals and circumstances. With the right approach, you’ll find yourself thriving both inside and outside the clinic.
