Before beginning any exercise program, it is essential to assess an individual’s health status, fitness level and readiness to participate. Pre-exercise questionnaires and health screening are tools that ensure exercise is both safe and effective for the participant.

Pre-exercise questionnaires, such as the Adult Pre-Exercise Screening Tool (APEST) or PAR-Q+, help identify existing medical conditions (e.g. asthma, heart disease, diabetes), previous or current injuries and risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity or a family history of illness. Early identification ensures that those at risk can be referred to a healthcare professional before beginning physical activity.

Health screening reduces the risk of adverse events during exercise, such as cardiovascular incidents (e.g. heart attack, stroke) and musculoskeletal injuries from inappropriate exercise intensity or type.

By identifying contraindications, fitness professionals can modify or delay certain activities to ensure participant safety.

Information gathered during screening supports the development of training programs that match the individual’s current fitness level, consider limitations or rehabilitation needs and align with their goals (e.g. weight loss, strength, rehabilitation, sports performance). This ensures that training is both targeted and realistic, increasing the likelihood of long-term adherence and results.

Initial health and fitness indicators serve as a benchmark to measure future improvements. This can motivate participants, inform adjustments to the program and identify any emerging health concerns. 

For fitness professionals, conducting health screening is part of their duty of care. It ensures informed consent is obtained, legal protection in the case of adverse events and ethical practice aligned with industry standards. 

See image down below. Click image to download questionnaire.