What assessments would you recommend taking prior to you (or someone you workout with) takes prior to working out? NASM recommends a PAR-Q, performing an overhead squat, push up and step tests...what tests have you taken and/or recommend so a person knows they're in good enough condition and have a good idea what areas to work on (strength, flexibility
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Interesting, I assume you mean prior to beginning a new program (as opposed to prior to a regular workout)? I like this, quantifying that ubiquitous-but-unhelpful disclaimer to see a doctor before beginning any exercise regimen...– G__Sep 4, 2012 at 22:40
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Before beginning a new program or maybe determining if it's time to begin/modify one– Meade RubensteinSep 5, 2012 at 1:13
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related: Fitness tests, is there a consensus on which to use– arober11Aug 17, 2015 at 0:31
1 Answer
From my personal experience, I'd say the following six tests do a pretty reasonable job at assessing a person's fitness. (I know I've had to do more flexibility assessments than just the sit and reach, but nothing is coming to mind at the moment; I'll edit this later if I recall any).
- Overhead Press
- Squats
- Push Ups
- Sit Ups
- Step Test
- Sit and Reach
Additionally, I think it also pays off to arm yourself with as much data as you can before you start a program. This gives you a meaningful way to measure and gauge your progress throughout the program.
- VO2 Max
- Body Fat Percentage
- Body Measurements (waist, neck, hip, etc.)
- Body Weight