Fitness Screening Resources

First Step

Know your client

Client screening is a vital first step to ensure safety and success. It helps identify health risks, personalize workouts, and build trust while reducing the chance of injury.

PAR-Q+

The Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q+) is a standardized tool designed to identify individuals who may need medical clearance before increasing their physical activity.

The PAR-Q+ is a detailed self-screening questionnaire that helps determine whether someone is ready to begin or increase their physical activity. 

The PAR-Q+ asks key questions about health and medical history to identify any risks or conditions that could impact safe participation in exercise or fitness assessments. The PAR-Q+ tool helps fitness leaders:

• Identify potential health risks and contraindications to exercise.
• Ensure client safety and comfort before beginning training.
• Document informed consent and screening procedures.

Fitness Leaders should always review completed PAR-Q+ forms before beginning any training session and refer clients to their healthcare provider when necessary.

Get Active Questionnaire

The Get Active Questionnaire (GAQ) is a pre-exercise screening tool developed by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP). 

This tool is designed to help individuals determine whether they can safely become more physically active on their own or if they should seek guidance from a healthcare provider first.

CSEP also offers a postpartum Get Active Questionnaire.