Physical activity prescription is an under-utilised tool for improving community health. In the right dose, physical activity can help to prevent, treat, and manage a range of chronic health conditions that increasingly impact the quality of life and physical function of individuals on a global scale.
Safe and effective exercise prescription requires careful consideration for the target individual’s health status, baseline fitness, goals and preferences. Several national and international organisations provide clinicians and allied health professionals with guidelines for how to screen, assess, and, when appropriate, prescribe exercise for the benefit of their patients/clients.