A fitness assessment includes a series of measurements that help determine the health status and physical fitness of an individual. There is a variety of tests that the trainers may use to determine an individual's baseline fitness level. These tests merely serve as the reference point for designing an appropriate exercise routine.

The Goals of Fitness Testing

• Create a relationship and establish expectations for both trainer and trainee
• Discover past injuries
• Assess current fitness level
• Identify fitness goals, motivation and interests for working out
• Select appropriate training options
• Set up tracking procedures and evaluate phases

Components of Fitness Assessments

Body Composition

Body composition describes the different components (muscles, bone, fat, and body water) that make up a person's total body weight.

Cardiovascular Endurance

Cardiovascular endurance testing measures how efficiently the heart and lungs work together to supply oxygen and energy to the body during physical activity.

Strength and Muscular Endurance

Muscle strength testing measures the maximal amount of force a muscle group can exert at one time, and muscular endurance testing measures the length of time a muscle group can contract before it fatigues.

Flexibility Testing

Measuring the flexibility or range of motion in certain joints of the body is helpful in assessing muscle weakness, injury and imbalances.