Returning to exercise and strength training in New Farm, Brisbane
Start where you are, with exercise physiologists who build strength around your body and your life.
Book a First ConsultWhether it's been months, years or you've never really exercised, starting can feel like the hardest part. You might be worried about getting hurt, unsure what's right for your body, or tired of programs that were never built for you.
At Habitual, our Accredited Exercise Physiologists help you return to movement and build strength with confidence, in a space that feels more like a home than a clinic. We start where you are, not where a fitness app thinks you should be.
Who this is for
- Getting back into exercise after a long break, a busy season of life, pregnancy or illness
- Returning to movement after an injury, surgery or a flare-up of pain
- Starting strength training for the first time, at any age
- Managing a condition like high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis or arthritis
- Over 40 or 50 and wanting to protect your bones, muscles, balance and independence
- Someone who has tried gyms or classes before and felt lost, sore or out of place
Not sure if it's right for you? That's exactly what the first consult is for.
Why start with an exercise physiologist
Safe from day one
We review your health history, medications and past injuries before you lift anything.
Built around your body
Your program reflects your joints, your energy, your schedule and your goals.
Progress you can see
We measure your strength and movement at the start, then track how you improve.
Confidence that lasts
We teach you how to move well, so you can keep training long after you finish with us.
A holistic approach
Movement doesn't happen in isolation. Sleep, stress, nutrition, hormones and your past experiences with exercise all shape how your body responds.
As a holistic health collective, we look at the whole picture. Your exercise physiologist considers how you're sleeping, your energy and what else is going on in your life, then adjusts your program to fit. Where it helps, we work alongside our other practitioners , including our dietitians, and with your GP so your care is joined up.
Nutrition that supports your training
Strength comes from what you do in your sessions and how you fuel your body around them. Our dietitians work alongside your exercise physiologist, so your movement and nutrition support each other.
Energy to train and recover
Eating in a way that helps you feel good in sessions and bounce back well between them.
Building and keeping muscle
Practical guidance on meals and protein that fit your routine, not a rigid diet.
Bone, heart and metabolic health
Support for conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, high cholesterol and blood pressure, alongside your exercise.
One joined-up plan
With your consent, your exercise physiologist and dietitian share goals and progress, so you get one clear plan.
How it works
Step 1: Start with a first consult
Every client begins with a 50-minute assessment. We talk through your history and goals, measure your strength and movement (VALD Dynamo Plus optional), and map out a plan that suits you. Telehealth is available if you can't make it into the clinic.
Step 2: Get your plan
You leave with a clear, personalised plan and your first exercises, explained in plain language.
Step 3: Train with support
Your exercise physiologist coaches your technique and adjusts the load each session, based on how you're feeling that day.
Step 4: Review and progress
We reassess regularly and update your program, so you keep getting stronger and more independent.
Ways to train with us
1:1 exercise physiology
Fully individual sessions in the clinic or by telehealth. Ideal if you have an injury, a health condition or want close support.
Small group strength
Train alongside a few others, each on your own program, supervised by an exercise physiologist.
Not a Gym Bro class
A relaxed, welcoming strength class for anyone who feels out of place in a typical gym. No ego and no pressure, just good coaching from an exercise physiologist.
Home program support
A tailored plan you can do at home or in your gym, with check-ins to keep you on track.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see an exercise physiologist?
No, you can book directly without a referral. If you'd like to use a Medicare plan, you'll need a referral from your GP first.
Can I claim exercise physiology on Medicare or private health?
Often, yes. People with an eligible chronic condition may receive a Medicare rebate for a limited number of sessions each year through a GP care plan, and many private health extras policies cover exercise physiology. Check with your GP and health fund for your exact entitlements.
I haven't exercised in years. Is it too late to start?
No, it's never too late. People build strength and improve their health well into their 70s and beyond. We start at a level that suits you and progress gradually.
I'm worried about getting injured. How do you keep it safe?
Safety starts with a thorough assessment of your health, past injuries and current fitness. We then choose exercises and loads that suit your body and adjust them every session.
What's the difference between an exercise physiologist and a personal trainer?
Accredited Exercise Physiologists are university-trained allied health professionals who prescribe exercise for injuries and health conditions. Personal trainers typically work with healthy clients on general fitness.
Will strength training make me bulky?
No. For most people, strength training builds lean muscle, stronger bones and better energy. Building significant size takes years of very specific training and eating.
Can I do sessions by telehealth?
Yes. Telehealth is available for first consults and 1:1 sessions, so you can get started even if you can't make it into the clinic.
Do I need to change my diet to start strength training?
Not necessarily, but what you eat affects your energy, recovery and results. If you'd like support, our dietitians can work alongside your exercise physiologist on an approach that fits your training and lifestyle.
What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable clothes you can move in, supportive shoes and a water bottle. Bring any relevant scans, reports or a list of your medications to your first consult.
Explore other health conditions
Ready to start moving again?
Book a first consult with one of our exercise physiologists in New Farm. We'll listen, assess and build a plan that fits your body and your life.
