Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q)
Many health benefits are associated with regular exercise, and the completion of PAR-Q is a sensible first step to take if you are planning to increase the amount of physical activity in your life. For most people physical activity should not pose any problem or hazard. PAR-Q is designed to identify the small number of adults for whom physical activity might be inappropriate or those who should seek medical advice concerning the type of activity most suitable for them. Common sense is the best guide in answering these few questions.
Please read them carefully and give as much detail as possible to a YES answer.
If you answered Yes to one or more questions:
If you have not recently done so, consult with your doctor by telephone or in person before increasing your physical activity and/or taking a fitness appraisal.
Tell your doctor what questions you answered ‘yes’ to on PAR-Q or present your PAR-Q copy. After medical evaluation, seek advice from your doctor as to your suitability for:
- Unrestricted physical activity starting off easily and progressing gradually
- Restricted or supervised activity to meet your specific needs, at least on an initial basis
If you answered No to all questions, you have reasonable assurance of your present suitability for:
- A graduated exercise programme
- A fitness appraisal