Exercise Right Month 2025: My parents taught me that movement is not just about fitness — it’s about quality of life.

This year for Exercise Right Month, we’ve been asked a simple question: Who moves you? Sophie, an Exercise Physiologist in our Sunnybank Hills Clinic answers the question:

For me, the inspiration to become an Exercise Physiologist came not only from the people around me but also from my own personal journey. My long-standing passion for track and athletics sparked a deep interest in how the body moves and performs. Over time, I came to realise that exercise holds the power to improve far more than athletic performance—it plays a vital role in enhancing physical, social, and emotional wellbeing, particularly for those navigating health challenges.

Looking back, several key people moved me along this path—starting with my athletics coach. When I was in school, I was deeply invested in track, but despite all the hours I spent training, I wasn’t making the progress I hoped for. I was giving it everything, but something wasn’t clicking. My coach was the first person to suggest I take my training beyond the track and incorporate strength work in the gym. At the time, I was hesitant. I’d absorbed the common misconceptions about gym training — especially as a young woman—that lifting weights might make me look “too bulky” or that it wasn’t necessary for runners. But giving it a go turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made—for both my performance and personal growth. The gym became a place of discovery. I began to understand how strength, conditioning, and properly prescribed exercise could give me the edge I’d been missing. I became faster, more resilient, and most importantly, I started to feel strong and confident in my own body.

That experience completely shifted my perspective. It made me realise that the benefits of exercise reach far beyond sport. It’s not just for athletes—it’s for everyone. I saw firsthand how much misinformation holds people back, particularly women, and it lit a fire in me to help change that. My parents also moved me toward this path. Their commitment to an active lifestyle showed me what it means to prioritise movement and health over the long term. They made exercise a regular part of our family life, and I saw the impact it had on their energy, mood, and overall wellbeing.
Their example taught me that movement is not just about fitness — it’s about quality of life.

These influences — my coach, my parents, and my own transformation — are who moved me to become an Exercise Physiologist.

Over time, my passion expanded beyond athletics. Whether I’m working with someone recovering from a stroke, managing arthritis, or living with a chronic illness, I’ve seen how targeted, meaningful movement can transform lives. It’s not just about the exercises themselves—it’s about giving people back their independence, improving their mental wellbeing, and helping them feel confident in their own bodies. Ultimately, being an Exercise Physiologist allows me to unite my passion for movement with a deeper purpose—helping others reclaim strength, confidence, and independence. Every session, every client, is a chance to make a difference. And every day, I’m reminded of who moved me—and why I love this work so much. If I can help people move with confidence, feel empowered in their bodies, and rediscover belief in themselves, then I know I’m doing what I was meant to do.

Because the true power of movement? It doesn’t just transform bodies—it transforms lives.

Author: Sophie Winter, Exercise Physiologist, Hiya Health Sunnybank Hills

Sophie Winter

Exercise Physiologist

View Sophie Winter’s profile