Regular physical activity is fun and healthy, and increasingly more people are starting to become more active every day. Being more active is very safe for most people. However, some people should check with their doctor before they start becoming much more physically active.

If you are planning to become much more physically active than you are now, start by answering the seven questions in the box below. If you are between the ages of 15 and 69, the PAR-Q (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire) will tell you if you should check with your doctor before you start. If you are over 69 years of age, and you are not used to being very active, check with your doctor.

Common sense is your best guide when you answer these questions. Please read the questions carefully and answer each one honestly: Check YES or NO.

1. Has your doctor ever said you have heart trouble?
Yes ___     No ___

2. Do you frequently have pains in your heart and chest?
Yes ___     No ___

3. Do you often feel faint or have spells of severe dizziness?
Yes ___     No ___

4. Has a doctor ever said your blood pressure was too high?
Yes ___     No ___

5. Has your doctor ever told you that you have a bone or joint problem such as arthritis that has been aggravated by exercise, or might be made worse with exercise?
Yes ___     No ___

6. Is there a good physical reason not mentioned here why you should not follow an activity program even if you wanted to?
Yes ___     No ___

7. Are you over age 65 and not accustomed to vigorous exercise?
Yes ___     No ___

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If you answered YES to one or more questions...
If you have not recently done so, consult with your personal physician by telephone or in person before increasing your physical activity.  Follow your doctor’s advice.

If you answered NO to all questions...
If you answered PAR-Q accurately, you have reasonable assurance of your present suitability for exercise.  Begin slowly and build up gradually.

Delay activity if...
If you’re not feeling well due to temporary illness such as a cold or fever.  Delay if you’re pregnant.  Talk to your doctor first to determine if it is appropriate for you to become more active.