An inactive adult has no known cardiovascular, metabolic or renal disease and reports no suggestive symptoms. The goal is light-to-moderate activity. Under the ACSM screening algorithm, what is appropriate?
- AObtain medical clearance before starting because the client is inactive
- BCount CVD risk factors and refer for clearance if two or more are present
- CBegin light-to-moderate activity without clearance and progress gradually
- DBegin with vigorous intervals, since no disease or symptoms are present
Show answer and explanations
Answer
C
Under the 2015 ACSM algorithm, an inactive adult with no known cardiovascular, metabolic or renal disease and no signs or symptoms does not need medical clearance. Light-to-moderate intensity is recommended, progressing gradually.
A
Inactivity sets the recommended starting intensity; on its own it does not trigger clearance when disease and symptoms are absent.
B
Counting risk factors was the pre-2015 risk-stratification method; the current algorithm does not use risk-factor counts to decide clearance.
D
For an inactive client the algorithm recommends starting at light-to-moderate intensity; vigorous work comes later through gradual progression.
C
Under the 2015 ACSM algorithm, an inactive adult with no known cardiovascular, metabolic or renal disease and no signs or symptoms does not need medical clearance. Light-to-moderate intensity is recommended, progressing gradually.