Basic precautions

Physical activity leads to many health benefits, but needs to be approached with care. The following guidelines are important when inviting older adults to be more active:

• Encourage your members to see their health care provider before starting a physical activity program. Resources: Activity Tool 3 - PAR-Q (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire) is an important part of a registration procedure.
• Proper technique is very important for getting the most out of an activity and reducing the risk of injury. A qualified activity leader provides not only instruction but also guidelines for a safe and rewarding program and environment.
• Participants should start out slowly and gradually build up the duration as well as the intensity of activities, go at their own pace and not overdo it.
• Participants should stop exercising if they feel dizziness, nausea, chest pain, shortness of breath or pain in their joints.
• Participants should delay exercising if they are recovering from a recent illness such as a cold or flu.
• For those with a history of falling, brisk walking should not be encouraged.

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