The importance of physical assessment

Few people give importance, but it is essential to do a physical assessment before starting any physical activity. Each organism reacts differently to exercise, as well as the process of adapting to the rhythm of physical activity and the scope of the end result varies between people. Hence the importance of physical evaluation, even if its intention is to exercise at home or simply walk the streets of the neighborhood.

What is the physical assessment for?

Physical assessment is crucial not only for assessing health-related physical fitness and sports performance, but also for assessing its evolution and exercise results. This evaluation consists essentially of tests and medical examinations, which must be done by specialists and serve to diagnose the current state of physical fitness, muscle and cardiorespiratory and to analyze the percentage of fat, in addition to other evaluations such as postural.

Contrary to popular belief, age is not a major determinant of limitations on physical exertion, as an active older person may have better fitness than a young but sedentary person.

Basically, the variations and limitations are attributed to the state of health, lifestyle and, above all, previous experiences with the practice of physical exercise and, consequently, the levels of physical fitness of each person.

An effective exercise program is one that adequately combines the frequency, duration and intensity of physical exertion, according to the conditions and needs of each diagnosed in the physical evaluation.

Consistently practiced exercise decreases the likelihood of accidents, reduces the risk of precipitation from cardiovascular accidents, orthopedic injuries, and prevents undue wear, which can lead to excessive psychological and physical fatigue.

One of the main causes of dropouts in the early stages of physical activity programs is the discomfort caused by certain exercises that, at that time, are not the most suitable for the conditions and needs presented by those who are practicing.

Mayo Clinic Minute: The Benefits of a Physical Exam (April 2024)