Which assessment tool is a minimal standard for entry into moderate-intensity exercise programs?

The Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) is a valuable tool used to evaluate individuals' readiness and safety to engage in physical activities, particularly moderate-intensity exercise programs. This questionnaire serves to identify any health concerns or conditions that may pose a risk during exercise, ensuring that participants can safely proceed without adverse effects.

Designed to be straightforward and user-friendly, the PAR-Q typically consists of a series of yes-or-no questions regarding medical history and current health status. It allows exercise professionals to determine whether further medical clearance is necessary before an individual begins an exercise program. As such, it is deemed a minimal standard for entry into such programs, as it helps to safeguard participants by alleviating potential health risks.

In contrast, other tools such as the Health Screening Questionnaire or FITNESSGRAM may provide useful information regarding broader health metrics or fitness levels, but they do not specifically focus on immediate readiness for exercise. Likewise, a Physical Activity Log primarily tracks past activity rather than assessing current readiness. Therefore, the focus of the PAR-Q on health readiness makes it the most appropriate choice for assessing entry into moderate-intensity exercise programs.