INTRODUCTION – How to write exercise prescription
Writing an exercise prescription is a comprehensive process
That involves assessing an individual’s needs, setting clear goals, and designing a customized exercise plan to help them achieve those goals safely and effectively.
Below is a step-by-step guide to writing an exercise prescription:
Initial Assessment – How to write exercise prescription
Begin by conducting a thorough assessment of the Patient / Sport Person .
Gather information about their:
- Medical history
- Current health status
- Fitness level
- Goals and motivations
Any specific limitations or contraindications (e.g., injuries, medical conditions)
Goal Setting:
Collaborate with the individual to establish clear and specific fitness goals.
These goals must be SMART ( Specific, Measurable, Achievable , Relevant, Time-oriented ).
Exercise Selection:
Determine the type(s) of exercise that align with the individual’s goals. Common options include:
- Cardiovascular (aerobic) exercises
- Strength training (resistance) exercises
- Flexibility and stretching exercises
- Balance and stability exercises
Frequency:
Decide how often the individual should engage in exercise. Frequency will depend on their goals, availability, and current fitness level.
Typically, aim for a balanced routine that includes both cardiovascular and strength training sessions.
Intensity:
Specify the appropriate exercise intensity. You can use various methods to determine intensity, such as:
- Target heart rate zones for cardiovascular exercise
- Perceived Exertion Scale (e.g., Borg RPE scale)
- Percentage of one’s one-repetition maximum (1RM) for strength training
Duration:
Set the duration of each exercise session. This can range from minutes to hours, depending on the type of exercise and fitness level.
Progression:
Develop a plan for progressive overload. Gradually increase the intensity, duration, or complexity of exercises as the individual’s fitness improves.
Specific Exercises:
Choose specific exercises that align with the individual’s goals and preferences. Provide clear instructions on how to perform each exercise with proper form.
Repetitions and Sets:
If prescribing strength training exercises, specify the number of repetitions and sets for each exercise.
This may vary based on the individual’s goals (e.g., endurance, hypertrophy, strength).
Rest Periods:
Determine appropriate rest periods between sets and exercises to optimize recovery and prevent overtraining.
Warm-up and Cool-down:
Include guidelines for a proper warm-up and cool-down to reduce the risk of injury and enhance recovery. This may involve dynamic stretches, mobility drills, or low-intensity exercises.
Safety Considerations:
Address safety concerns by providing guidance on injury prevention techniques and ensuring that exercises are suitable for the individual’s physical condition.
Monitoring and Evaluation:
Establish a system for tracking progress, such as recording workouts, monitoring changes in body measurements, and assessing improvements in strength, endurance, or flexibility.
Adaptation and Reevaluation:
Regularly reassess the individual’s progress and adjust the exercise prescription as needed to prevent plateaus and accommodate changes in their fitness level or health status.
Motivation and Support:
Offer encouragement, motivation, and support to help the individual stay committed to their exercise program.
How to write exercise prescription : Documentation
Maintain detailed records of the exercise prescription, including all relevant information and updates.
Follow-up and Communication: How to write exercise prescription
Stay in contact with the individual to address any questions or concerns, and provide ongoing guidance and feedback.
Remember that exercise prescriptions should be individualized, and it’s crucial to prioritize safety, effectiveness, and adherence throughout the process.
How to write exercise prescription – click here
If you are not a qualified Physiotherapist or fitness professional, consider seeking guidance from one to ensure that the prescription is tailored to the individual’s unique needs and circumstances.