New Evidence Based Exercise Pre-Screen Tool Raises NZ Standards
REPs has released its evidence-based pre-screening tool to deliver high quality care to the NZ exercising public, and
further encourage collaboration with allied health professionals.
New Zealanders seek advice and services regularly from the exercise industry to positively impact their health and
exercise. In order to establish a safe and effective exercise programme, an evidence-based process is required so that
risk factors can be discovered and managed.
At the recent FitEx conference for the exercise industry, the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs)
launched New Zealand’s first ever evidence-based pre-screening tool and best practice guide for exercise professionals.
The system provides a cutting-edge new tool to deliver high quality pre-screening and exercise programme development. In
the hands of REPs Registered Professionals, this tool will enhance the health benefits of structured exercise through a
comprehensive screening process.
The NZ exercise industry provides a diverse range of exercise solutions, provided by qualified and skilled
professionals. However, not all exercise providers are created equal. Unfortunatetly as there are providers of exercise
advice in New Zealand who are not qualified and appropriately trained, and this can lead to at best, a lack of results,
and at worst, injury and other negative health outcomes for the exerciser.
The exercising public deserves to get the appropriate care and information based on their individual needs and health
history to exercise safely. For too long the pre-screening process undertaken prior to commencing structured exercise in
New Zealand has been inconsistent, at best.
Developed by Dr Nigel Harris and Dr Lance Dalleck who have extensive background and expertise in exercise research and
pre-screening, the REPs pre-screening tool is available exclusively for REPs Registered Professionals and Facilities to
screen clients with a range of health and medical conditions. The system is comprehensive and for example, includes
guidance on exercise and medication interactions, and the recommended modifications to exercise programmes based on the
medications taken.
The implementation of this resource will mean that prior to receiving exercise advice, the NZ public will have the
opportunity to go through a consultation process with a registered professional to ensure an exercise programme is
developed to meet their exact needs. This process differs from many pre- screening forms that merely sign off risk. The
new system includes a process for referral to a GP should medical clearance be required.
As our industry continues to raise standards, and provide a high level of professionalism, there has been a strong need
for a comprehensive evidence-based pre-screen system, so this is a welcome development. The screening package has been
designed to ensure increased safety for the exercising public, while also maintaining the effectiveness of the exercise
prescription process.
The upshot of this is that anyone exercising with a REPs Registered Exercise Professional who uses the new system, will
be maximising their opportunity to receive both safe and effective exercise advice. And that’s good news for everyone.
ENDS