What Does It Mean and How Can It Help?
Although the vast majority of a personal trainer’s clients make their own choices as to which PT suits them and their ambitions, there are some who are referred by their own GP for health reasons.
This practice, known as ‘exercise referral’ is when a healthcare professional refers a patient to a PT for a fitness programme with the intention of improving their health through physical exercise and potentially deliver an additional beneficial impact on the patient’s lifestyle.
The NHS scheme is aimed at inactive adults with a low or moderate risk long-term condition. It is also available to anyone who is assessed as “inactive” by a primary care or similar health professional i.e. they do not meet the current UK physical activity guidelines as defined by the Department of Health.
The sort of health conditions for which a person may be referred typically include the following:
1. Cardiovascular Diseases: Hypertension, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure
2. Diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, prediabetes.
3. Respiratory Diseases: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma.
4. Musculoskeletal Issues: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic back pain, osteoporosis.
5. Mental Health Conditions: Depression, anxiety, stress-related disorders.
6. Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome: Overweight, obesity, metabolic syndrome.
Only personal trainers with a Level 3 Qualification in Exercise Referral from a recognised industry body are qualified to offer exercise for Controlled Conditions and they will register with the local GP surgery which makes the referrals.
What Happens In A Referral?
A doctor may decide that a patient’s recovery post-operation or illness would be better served by referring them to a personal trainer for a structured physical activity programme.
Any client who comes to me as part of exercise referral will be assessed first of all as to their current health, level of fitness, and any particular need they may have been referred for, taking into account any contraindications from the GP.
I shall then work with them on creating a bespoke programme of exercises specifically to accommodate their medical condition, fitness level, and goals. It is important that the client understands the overall objective of undertaking the exercises and also the impact of their lifestyle on the efficacy of the fitness regime. So often, the biggest changes occur through changes to day-to-day life and not just through the 1-1 session!
Of course, as with all clients, I follow their progress closely and “tweak” the exercise plans on an ongoing basis to maintain the standard and keep up the forward momentum.
How It Helps
The intended outcome of an exercise referral programme is that the patient comes away with an improved level of health including cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and flexibility. In addition, it can help the patient develop the ability to better handle their condition, or return to strength after their surgery. (nb not to be confused with post-surgery/illness physiotherapy – which should be thoroughly undertaken either before or alongside PT if recommended by healthcare provider)
Furthermore, patients working with a PT on an exercise referral programme often go on to live a healthier lifestyle as a result of the advice and guidance that they receive from their PT.
Research and Acknowledgements
befitnessandpt.co.uk 