Dr. George L. Dixon - "Talking Fitness"

THE "PAR-Q" (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire)

Before beginning your exercise program, take this simple test. Answer the questions below. If there are any "yes" answers, postpone your exercise or fitness plans until you get medical consultation and clearance.

1. Has a doctor ever said that you have a heart condition and recommended only medically supervised activity?

2. Do you have chest pain brought on by physical activity?

3. Have you developed chest pain in the past month?

4. Do you tend to lose consciousness or fall over as a result of dizziness?

5. Do you have a bone or joint problem that could be aggravated by the proposed physical activity?

6. Has a doctor ever recommended medication for your blood pressure or a heart condition?

7. Are you aware through your own experience, or a doctor's advice, of any other physical reason against your exercising without medical supervision?

If you answered "NO" to all questions accurately and honestly, you have reasonable assurance of your present suitablity for a graduated exercise program.

If you have a temporary minor illness, such as a common cold, postpone the beginning of your program.

There is NO guarantee that any protection from sudden death is afforded by ANY pre-test, even those more complex than PAR-Q.

(Ref: Shephard, R.J., Thomas, S., and Weller, I. (1991). "The Canadian Home Fitness Test: 1991update," Sports Medicine. 1: page 359.)

Splendid ways to begin are outlined in "Exercise a la Carte", bookstore or 800-624-4952