Safety should always remain a foremost concern for every personal trainer.  Safety issues range from proper exercise techniques to appropriate spotting methods to thorough health screenings.  As personal trainers conduct health screenings or client health surveys, they must pay particular attention to cardiac risk factors.  A comprehensive client intake form will include a detailed questionnaire pertaining to a prospective client’s health history and current condition. 

An initial health feedback form will serve as a basis for a complete screening that may disqualify or partially disqualify a prospective client.  Personal trainers must insist that everyone soliciting their services is healthy enough to partake in an exercise program and should be alert to any “red flags”.  Some potential cardiac “red flags” include:  family history of heart disease; previous heart attacks; hypertension; obesity; Type II diabetes; high cholesterol; and any abnormal resting EKGs.  If a client indicates a problem or history related to these “red flags”, the trainer should decline to provide services to the person until he or she produces a doctor’s clearance for exercise.

 Although personal trainers are not typically medically trained, most can administer a blood pressure check with a blood pressure cuff.  Blood pressure cuffs are relatively inexpensive, portable, and easy to use.  They can be purchased at most pharmacies or discount stores, and are essential equipment for all fitness professionals.  If a potential client is uncertain about his or her blood pressure or has not been checked recently, then it is a good idea for the trainer to conduct a test.  If the reading is greater than 145 over 95, then the trainer should disqualify the client until he or she returns with a doctor’s permission to participate in a training program.  Furthermore, if a valid reading is difficult to achieve or the trainer has any concerns whatsoever, then a physician’s clearance is an appropriate requirement.

 Many among the general public, including potential clients, are not aware of the severity of their cardiac risk level.  A simple screening performed by a fitness professional can save a person’s life by alerting the potential heart attack victim of their condition.  It cannot be overstated that anyone deemed at risk should seek evaluation from a physician, especially if considering a new exercise program.  Most people also are not aware that many of the risk factors are manageable through diet, proper exercise, and/or medication.  A trainer can serve as the motivating and educating link for someone in need of such change.