What should a fitness professional do before starting a training program with a client?

Having the client fill out a Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) is essential before beginning a training program. This document helps assess the client's readiness for physical activity and identifies any potential health risks or medical conditions that could affect their ability to safely engage in exercise. By completing the PAR-Q, clients provide critical information about their health history, current physical condition, and any physiological concerns, which allows the fitness professional to tailor a safe and effective training program that meets the client's specific needs.

Ensuring clients are prepared for exercise not only prioritizes their safety but also builds a foundation for developing a strong trainer-client relationship based on trust and professionalism. This process establishes a clear understanding of the client's capabilities and limitations, guiding the fitness professional in designing a program that can progress effectively while minimizing the risk of injury.