The Power of Exercise in Disability Support

“Everybody’s life can be improved by exercising more, but everybody has different barriers to doing that.” 

Recently, I had the opportunity to interview Ben Baxter, Director of Motion Matters Exercise Physiology (MMEP), to discuss how exercise physiology can make a profound impact on the lives of those with disabilities. What followed was an insightful conversation into the power of exercise and its ability to help individuals overcome the obstacles hindering their growth.

What Is Exercise Physiology?

When asked to define exercise physiology, Ben explained, “It’s about making exercise accessible for all due to the massive health benefits it provides. So in short, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) is basically an expert in figuring out ways to keep promoting activity, regardless of what limitations you have.”

Ben clarified that, unlike physiotherapists who generally focus on more immediate/acute injuries and can diagnose, AEPs work on chronic and complex health conditions and can not diagnose

For example, someone may have fractured their ankle years ago, but might still be struggling with their movement. Ben said that these are the cases in which AEPs are the recommended help. 

He shared with us the kind of questions that those in his profession ask: “Everything’s kind of healed, but how can we still get you moving? And you might not necessarily get back to ‘normal’, but how can we improve your circumstances?”.

Ben with a wheel-chair bound client.

Exercise for Individuals with Disabilities

Exercise physiology shines especially bright in the context of disability support. Ben stressed that while disabilities are often permanent, exercise can still play a pivotal role in improving daily functioning and reducing health risks. "Inactivity can lead to secondary conditions like heart disease, lung issues, or decreased independence," Ben explained. Regular movement can enhance physical fitness and mental health as well as reduce aches, pains and other symptoms of inactivity.

The conversation shifted to how this applies to specific disabilities, such as autism. Ben confirmed that exercise can help improve motor skills and emotional regulation for those on the spectrum.

Real-Life Impact

Ben shared some inspiring stories of individuals with disabilities whose lives have been transformed through exercise physiology. One client, a young boy with balancing issues due to a neurological condition, has been steadily improving his strength and stability. Another client, who is non-verbal and wheelchair-bound, has worked with Ben to develop his upper body strength, allowing him to assist his carers more effectively. Now, after extensive work, he can push against 20 kilos of resistance. “It’s a massive improvement compared to where we started,” Ben said.

Tailored Programs and Empowerment

One of the standout features of MMEP is the individualized attention each client receives. Ben emphasized the importance of tailoring programs to the unique needs of each person. “We don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach,” he said. “Everything is adjusted to fit the individual.”

Ben also highlighted the studio’s private setting, which provides a comfortable space for clients who might feel self-conscious in a typical gym environment. He also mentioned the efforts to make the place accessible and inclusive to those with disabilities. “We have accessible facilities, including a disabled toilet chair and shower, and there’s usually only one or two people in the studio at any time.”

Crucially, the MMEP team does not see their clients with disabilities as helpless or incapable. Ben believes in pushing clients to their full potential, saying, “Some of our clients (with disabilities) push harder than most people, and we’re here to support that.”

Not Just the Body, but the Mind

Exercise physiology isn’t limited to improving physical conditions. Ben shared that he has helped individuals with mental health challenges like schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. One memorable success story involved a woman who had been inactive due to severe depression. Over time, Ben worked with her to build up to walking her dog daily and attending the gym twice a week. 

“Now she’s been maintaining this routine for ten months, and her strength and overall well-being have improved dramatically,” Ben said, underscoring the mental health benefits of regular exercise.

Final Thoughts

As our conversation came to a close, one thing was clear: exercise isn’t just about reaching an ideal standard—it’s about overcoming both mental and physical obstacles that may be in the way of uncovering the height of one’s potential. Huge thank you to Ben for agreeing to be part of this conversation, and be sure to check out his website at https://www.mmep.com.au/.