Oliver Cheesman
APA Physiotherapist
About
Oliver Cheesman is a committed, driven physiotherapist with a strong background in sport, performance, and evidence-based rehabilitation. He graduated from the University of Adelaide with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) alongside a Bachelor of Health and Medical Sciences (Advanced).
Oliver has spent the past four years working within the gym located at our Arruda Clinic as a personal trainer and group exercise instructor. Through these years he has gained invaluable hands-on experience in exercise programming, coaching, and real-time modification for group-based and individual training environments. This exposure has allowed him to develop a practical, athlete-centred approach to physiotherapy that seamlessly integrates rehabilitation with performance.
Throughout this time working with the Arruda High Performance Academy, Oliver has had the opportunity to work alongside elite and sub-elite athletes, including AFL players, international netballers, and cricketers, supporting them in achieving their goals and returning to high-level sport.
Oliver’s passion for physiotherapy was sparked early through his own sporting journey. As a keen footballer, he played state league football for the Port Adelaide Magpies, gaining first-hand experience of injury, rehabilitation, and the vital role physiotherapy plays in keeping athletes on the park. Working closely with physiotherapists throughout his playing career naturally led him to pursue the profession himself.
Qualifications & Education
- Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) – University of Adelaide
- Bachelor of Health and Medical Sciences (Advanced) – University of Adelaide
- Certificate III & IV in Fitness – Australian Institute of Personal Trainers
- Member, Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)
Treatment Philosophy
Oliver is a strong advocate for strength training as a cornerstone of health, believing it is essential for everyone – from desk-based workers to elite athletes. He focuses on empowering patients to remain active throughout their rehabilitation, building confidence, resilience, and long-term capacity rather than short-term fixes.
He values the role of manual therapy in reducing pain and improving function, while integrating this with targeted exercise, education, and load management. Oliver tailors every session to align with his patient’s goals, ensuring treatment is individualised, practical, and sustainable.
Personal Interests
Outside the clinic, Oliver can often be found on the Arruda gym floor, coaching group classes or completing his own training sessions. When he’s not in the gym, he enjoys a round of golf, watching sport, and spending time with friends and family.