Get to know your NDIS exercise physiologist, Josiah Naidoo
We’ve asked our friendly and knowledgeable exercise physiologist, Josiah, a couple of questions so that you can get to know him!
Why did you become an exercise physiologist?
During one of my university placements, I was fortunate to work in an exercise physiology clinic. I quickly discovered how much I enjoyed being part of each client’s journey, witnessing firsthand how targeted exercise interventions could significantly enhance a person’s independence and overall wellbeing. This placement also showed me how closely physical and mental health are connected, and how improving one can positively influence the other. That experience sparked a genuine passion for the field and solidified my decision to become an exercise physiologist.
What has led to your passion for working in disability?
I have always had a passion for helping people, but I think my passion for working in the disability sector developed during my university placements, where I had the opportunity to work closely with clients living with various physical and cognitive disabilities. What stood out to me was how impactful structured exercise could be. Not just for improving physical function, but also for building confidence, independence, and overall wellbeing. I found it incredibly fulfilling to use my knowledge of exercise to help clients achieve goals that mattered to them, whether it was walking unaided, improving balance, or simply enjoying being active again.
Do you have a memorable experience of assisting a client to achieve their goals that you’d like to share?
During my undergraduate placement, I worked with a client who had recently undergone a double knee reconstruction and was clearly reluctant to participate in rehab. They spoke very little, and when they did, their tone was flat and disengaged. However, after a few weeks of consistent rehabilitation, their attitude began to shift. They became more talkative, started to engage in conversations, and even began to enjoy coming to the gym, no longer seeing it as a chore. Although I wasn’t there long enough to witness them reach their physical goals, I consider the positive change in their mindset and engagement with exercise to be a significant success.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time I enjoy playing soccer and taking photos with my film camera. I am also a youth group leader, whilst also completing a diploma.
What is your favourite sport or physical activity?
Soccer is my favourite sport, closely followed by basketball
In another life, if you weren’t an exercise physiologist, what do you think you’d be doing?
In another life, I would travel around the world taking photos with a film camera
What is one thing that people would be surprised to learn about you? Do you have a hidden talent?
I’m a quarter Croatian, South African and Indian (no idea what the last quarter is, probably a mix of English and Irish). As for a hidden talent, I guess finding an absolute steal when op shopping. I’m also pretty good at throwing playing cards.
What is your favourite movie, book and holiday?
Movie: Cool Runnings or The Mighty Ducks
Book: ASCM guidelines
Holiday: favourite place I’ve been would be America; favourite place I want to go would be to Spain or Croatia.
Thanks so much to Josiah for sharing more about himself and his reason for working in disability with our community!! We hope that you’ve enjoyed getting to know him! If you’d like to arrange services with Josiah or another of our therapists, please contact us today!
Josiah Naidoo provides Active Ability’s exercise physiology services around Ryde in Sydney. Specifically, you’ll find him in Epping & surrounds including Turramurra, Beecroft, West Pymble, Marsfield, Macquarie Park, Eastwood, Denistone and North Ryde.