Medical Exercise Therapy (MTT) is targeted strength and endurance training under therapeutic supervision — using equipment and your own body weight. It builds on where traditional physiotherapy leaves off: the body is gradually made resilient again, whether after surgery, an injury, or with chronic complaints.
Typical Areas of Use
- Recovery after surgery and injuries
- Chronic back pain
- Osteoarthritis and joint complaints
- Loss of strength after prolonged rest
- Prevention of relapses
How It Works
- 1At the beginning there is an assessment and a training plan: the therapist tests strength, mobility, and resilience and agrees realistic goals with you.
- 2You train on equipment and with free exercises — initially closely supervised, so that technique and dosage are right.
- 3The load is increased from session to session, adapted to your progress and how you feel on the day.
- 4Towards the end of therapy, the transition is planned: a home programme, independent training, or return to sport.
How to Prepare
- Bring sports clothing and clean trainers.
- Bring your doctor's prescription and any relevant reports.
- Pack a small drink and a towel.
Side Effects & Risks
- Muscle soreness in the first weeks is normal and a sign of adaptation.
- If progression is too rapid, overload of tendons and joints is possible — that is why the load is built up in a controlled way.
- In cases of cardiovascular disease, training is adapted accordingly; inform the team about any pre-existing conditions.
- Serious incidents are rare under supervision.
After training, muscle soreness and a feeling of pleasant tiredness are normal; give the muscles you have worked a day's rest between sessions. Make sure you get enough sleep and fluids — both support recovery. Contact your therapist or doctor if joint pain increases during or after training, if swelling occurs or symptoms radiate to new areas, and also if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness during exercise.

Cost & Insurance
Medical Exercise Therapy is covered by basic health insurance when it is prescribed by a doctor and performed by accredited physiotherapy professionals; the deductible and co-payment apply as usual. If you continue training on your own initiative after the prescribed series has ended, this is usually self-pay — some supplementary insurance policies contribute to training subscriptions. Check with your insurer if in doubt.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What distinguishes MTT from a gym membership?
- With MTT you train according to a therapeutic plan tailored to your diagnosis, and you are accompanied by professionals who monitor technique and load. At the gym, by contrast, you are largely on your own.
- Am I fit enough for this?
- Yes — exercise therapy deliberately begins at your current level, even if this is low after surgery or prolonged rest. Progression is gradual and controlled.
- How long before I notice progress?
- Initial improvements in strength and endurance often become apparent after four to six weeks of regular training. Stable progress usually takes two to three months.
- What does Medical Exercise Therapy cost?
- With a doctor's prescription, the practice usually bills via basic health insurance; you pay the deductible and co-payment. Voluntary continued training afterwards you usually pay for yourself.
- Can I do other sports alongside MTT?
- Often yes — discuss with your therapist which activities fit well with the recovery programme and where you should be cautious for the time being.
