Physiotherapy at St Leonards Physio

Physiotherapy Support for Diabetes

This life-changing physiotherapy program is designed to support people living with diabetes, helping you take control of your health and improve your long-term quality of life.

If you’re living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, targeted exercise and lifestyle changes may significantly improve your overall health and help manage your condition more effectively. At St Leonards Physiotherapy, our physiotherapists have undergone accredited training in specialist physiotherapy treatment for diabetes, enabling us to deliver the nationally recognised BEAT IT program.

This evidence-based diabetes exercise and education program provides tailored support in a welcoming and supportive environment, helping you build healthy habits and reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications.

About the BEAT IT Diabetes Program

Our goal is to empower you to manage your diabetes confidently and independently. And that’s whether you’re newly diagnosed, or if you’ve been living with it for years. The BEAT IT diabetes program at St Leonards is a 10-week course that combines moderate-intensity aerobic, strength, and balance exercises with practical education on healthy living and diabetes self-management. The program gradually builds your confidence, fitness, and strength in a small-group setting with others on a similar path.

Costs and requirements

Initial 10-week BEAT IT program

FREE (funded through the NDSS – we can assist you with enrolment).

Ongoing post-program support

After completing the first term, you’re welcome to join our Post-BEAT IT group, running twice a week during school terms. You can find more information about costs, times and our cancellation policy on our classes page.

Medical clearance required

Before starting, you’ll need a clearance from your GP to ensure it's safe for you to participate.

Looking for help with diabetes?

Contact St Leonards Physiotherapy today to learn how physio for diabetes can support you in living a healthier, more active life.

Jacques O’Hearn

M.Physio (Physiotherapy) B.App.Sc (exercise and Sports Science)

Jacques is a physiotherapist with a strong foundation in exercise science and several years of experience delivering exercise-based rehabilitation in both individual and group settings. After completing his Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of Sydney, he went on to graduate with a Master of Physiotherapy from UTS, gaining broad clinical experience across musculoskeletal, orthopaedic, and neurological settings.

Jacques takes a thoughtful and collaborative approach to treatment, focusing on clear assessment, patient education, and evidence-based exercise rehabilitation. He enjoys helping people return to the activities they love, striving to make rehabilitation meaningful, achievable, and tailored to each individual. His experience in delivering structured exercise programs has strengthened his ability to coach movement effectively, progress programs safely, and support people of all fitness levels.

In the clinic, Jacques combines hands-on therapy with targeted strength and conditioning and movement retraining. He values good communication, rapport building, and empowering patients with the tools and confidence they need to manage their health long-term.

Outside of work, Jacques enjoys spending time at the beach, playing golf, participating in social sports and strength training, and exploring the Northern Beaches with his wife.

Jacques O'hearn - Physio