What does the Human Potential Clinic do?

The Human Potential Clinic (HPC) is a leading provider of clinical exercise physiology services in New Zealand. This unique clinic specialises in providing evidence-based, advanced exercise assessment and prescription for people living with a wide range of risk factors and medical conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer.

The HPC works closely with referring medical practitioners, specialists and other allied health professionals to provide comprehensive prevention, treatment and management of various health conditions. Services are centred on the principles of progressive self-management and long-term changes in health-behaviours, ranging from closely-supervised (one-on-one) to home-based (independent) programmes. Research clearly shows that individualised exercise programmes based on gold-standard laboratory assessments can offer substantially greater health benefits than generic low to moderate intensity exercise programmes, whilst minimising risk.

What types of services are offered by a Clinical Exercise Physiologist?

Our main aim is to be able to provide a truly individualised exercise and physical activity routine which will provide you with the training stimulus you need to improve your health and wellbeing, while still being safe and minimising any of your familiar symptoms. To achieve this, we conduct a comprehensive assessment including a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and any other relevant measures.

A CPET consists of an exercise test performed on a either treadmill or stationary bike. This test is tailored to your current physical ability and begins out at an easy and manageable pace before gradually progressing through to a higher intensity. During this test, we monitor a range of vital information to ensure your safety, allowing us to determine the optimal intensity for your training programme. On completion of the test, we explain the results so you understand where you are at.

Some of the measures we are monitoring during your CPET include:

  • Respiratory gas analysis (VO2, fitness level)
  • Cardio rhythm – 12 Lead ECG
  • Haemodynamic function (HR, BP)
  • Lung function (respiratory rate etc.)
  • Signs and symptoms (objective check)
  • O2 saturation

We also perform any other relevant testing measures including:

  • Muscular strength and endurance
  • Whole body balance and control
  • Pre / post spirometry
  • Symptom irritability and triggers

Following your assessment, we then design an exercise programme that matches your goals with your current physical abilities. There are a number of options for implementing your exercise programme and no set time frame. Depending on your situation and condition, it could range from exercise guidelines and advice through to monitored one-on-one sessions at our clinic, in your home, or in a local community gym. Exercise guidelines can also be applied to group settings.

Who can benefit from working with a Clinical Exercise Physiologist?

Everyone wanting to improve their health and fitness can benefit. Clinical Exercise Physiologists (CEPs) deal with both “healthy” people and those people with a diagnosed medical condition. CEPs are specially trained to work with a wide range of health conditions including the following:

  • Cardiovascular and metabolic conditions (i.e. coronary artery disease, type I and II diabetes, hypertension, lipid disorders)
  • Pulmonary conditions (i.e. COPD, asthma, anxiety-related breathing disorders)
  • Neurological conditions (i.e. stroke, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy)
  • Joint issues (i.e. osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout)
  • Immunological issues or blood disorders (i.e. recovery from cancer, anaemia, haemophilia)
  • Mood conditions (i.e. depression, anxiety, bi-polar)
  • Pre-menopausal and post-menopausal conditions

For more information on what services we provide please contact us on:
P: +64 9 921 9999 ext 7848
E: [email protected]
W: autmillennium.org.nz/clinics/human-potential-clinic

LEAVE A REPLY