As we wrap up our May feature on Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders, we’re closing with a comprehensive look at the most common conditions we see — and how Exercise Physiology plays a critical role in long-term support and symptom relief.

Managing blood sugar, restoring hormone balance, and improving energy isn’t just about willpower or medication. It’s about using one of the most powerful tools available: movement. But not just any movement — it needs to be structured, personalised, and backed by science.

Hormonal and metabolic dysfunction can make daily life feel like an uphill battle. You may notice stubborn fatigue, difficulty losing weight, or symptoms that don’t fit into a clear box — and be told it’s “just stress” or “part of getting older.”

That’s often not the whole story.

These could be signs of Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders.

At East Coast Rehab & Health, our mission is to help clients reclaim their health through targeted exercise. When it comes to conditions like Type 2 Diabetes, Insulin Resistance, PCOS, and Hypothyroidism, guided movement isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common conditions we support — and how Exercise Physiology can transform your experience.

🩸 Type 2 Diabetes: Why Movement is Medicine

What it is:
Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body either resists insulin or doesn’t produce enough. Elevated blood glucose damages nerves, organs, and blood vessels over time.

Symptoms to note:

• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds
• Tingling in extremities
  

What to watch out for:

Many people have no early symptoms. A routine blood test may be the first indicator, especially if you’re overweight or have a family history.

In Australia:

• Almost 1.2 million Australians (4.6%) were living with Type 2 Diabetes in 2021.
• Males are 1.3 times more likely than females to have the condition.
• Among First Nations people, 10.7% (about 51,900) were affected in 2018–19.
• Prevalence rises with remoteness and socioeconomic disadvantage.
• In 2021, around 45,700 Australians were newly diagnosed — approximately 125 people per day.
• New diagnoses have almost halved since 2008, yet the condition remains highly prevalent.

How Exercise Physiology helps:

Tailored workouts improve insulin sensitivity and muscle glucose uptake. With Ben’s expert guidance, clients experience stabilised blood sugar, more consistent energy, and lower risk of complications.

⚖️ Insulin Resistance & Prediabetes: Early Signs and Smart Intervention

What it is:
Insulin resistance means cells respond poorly to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar. Prediabetes is a warning sign — blood sugar is elevated but not yet diabetic.

Often subtle symptoms include:

• Fatigue after meals
• Brain fog
• Cravings for sugar or carbs
• Belly fat
• Dark neck or underarm patches
  

What to watch out for:

Symptoms can be minimal. If you have risk factors like PCOS, a sedentary lifestyle, or family history — ask for a blood test.

In the population:

Over 2 million Australians may have prediabetes or insulin resistance. Globally, 1 in 3 adults live with undiagnosed insulin resistance.

How Exercise Physiology helps:

Through progressive strength and aerobic training, insulin action improves significantly. Ben crafts smart, sustainable plans that help reverse these early signs — preventing Type 2 Diabetes.

🌸 PCOS & the Role of Strength Training

What it is:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that impacts ovulation and insulin regulation, often affecting metabolism and reproductive health.

Symptoms can include:

• Irregular or no periods
• Acne or oily skin
• Abdominal weight gain
• Excess facial or body hair
• Thinning scalp hair
• Infertility
• Low mood or fatigue
  

What to watch out for:

Many women go undiagnosed. Less than 9 periods per year or unexplained weight changes are red flags — a conversation with your GP can lead to clarity.

PCOS statistics:

Around 13% of Australian women of reproductive age live with PCOS. Globally, 1 in 10 women are affected, often unknowingly.

How Exercise Physiology helps:

Strength-based programs support hormone balance, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation. Ben’s tailored approach helps clients feel more energetic and empowered, both physically and emotionally.

🔄 Hypothyroidism & Managing Weight with Exercise

What it is:

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland underproduces thyroid hormone, slowing metabolism and affecting temperature, mood, and energy.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent fatigue
• Unexplained weight gain
• Constant cold feeling
• Brain fog
• Low mood
• Slow heart rate
• Constipation
• Irregular periods
  

What to watch out for:

The condition often appears gradually. If lifestyle changes aren’t producing results and symptoms persist, request a thyroid panel (TSH, T3, T4).

In Australia:

• Over 1 million Australians are estimated to be living with an undiagnosed thyroid disorder.
• Approximately 14% of older Australians suffer from a clinically relevant thyroid condition, with 4% remaining undiagnosed.
• National studies (2004) showed about 50% of Australian children and pregnant women had iodine deficiency, a leading cause of thyroid dysfunction.
• More recent data shows about 10% of pregnant women suffer from mild hypothyroidism, often due to autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto’s).
• Alarmingly, thyroid cancer is also on the rise — increasing by 84% in women and 48% in men over the 10 years leading up to 2014.

How Exercise Physiology helps:

Ben’s focus on resistance training supports metabolic function and reduces fatigue. Unlike generic cardio workouts, his programs are low-stress and effective — helping clients manage weight and energy without overexertion.

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✅ Why Choose Exercise Physiology at East Coast Rehab & Health

Each program is built on your unique needs, goals, and health status.

When working with an Accredited Exercise Physiologist like Ben Larner, you’re not just getting a workout — you’re gaining a trusted clinical partner who understands the complexity of Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders.

Even small shifts in movement can yield big changes in health outcomes.
Whether you’ve been newly diagnosed or living with a condition for years, Exercise Physiology provides the structure and support to move forward with confidence.

Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders don’t have to control your life. With the right guidance, you can build strength, restore balance, and thrive again.

📍 Ready to take the next step?
Book your session with Ben Larner at East Coast Rehab & Health and start your journey to sustainable health today.