Introduction
The importance of the physical fitness that results from committing to aerobic exercises cannot be overstated. Exercising regularly while observing proper dietary habits is necessary for sustaining optimal health conditions (Sallis 3). It is also essential that individuals assess their health on a regular basis, which is necessary in avoiding adverse health conditions. Sally’s case demonstrates the expected outcome when an individual fails to commit to a healthy diet and physical activity. Considering her at-risk status, she will need to be strict in observing a regular exercising schedule, failure to which her diabetic condition will worsen. The good aspect is that her condition can still be corrected. Below, a self-assessment, as well as Sally’s assessment, will be provided.
Self-Assessment
Step 1 – Safety Screening
Physical activity readiness questionnaire
Name
Date of birth
Please answer each of the questions below honestly
- Has your healthcare provider ever told you that you have a health condition that requires you to exercise regularly?
Yes No
- Do you feel pain in your chest when you exercise?
Yes No
- Do you have a bone or joint problem that could be worsened by engaging in physical activity?
Yes No
- What is your most recent blood pressure reading?
120/80
- What is your daily calorie intake?
Roughly 2,500kcal
Step 2 – determining readiness for change and prescription
| Stage of change | Action step |
| Pre-contemplation (unwilling to start being physically active) | N/A |
| Contemplation (willing to become physically active) | Consult websites and journals that promote fitness |
| Preparation | Prescription: a combination of moderate-intensity and vigorous intensity activity (Nieman and White 277). |
| Action | Continued physical exercise |
| Maintenance | Spend time with people with similar health behaviors |
Sally’s Assessment
Step 1 – Safety Screening
Physical activity readiness questionnaire
Client’s name Sally
Date of birth 1957
Please answer each of the questions below honestly
- Has your healthcare provider ever told you that you have a health condition that requires you to exercise regularly?
Yes No
- Do you feel pain in your chest when you exercise?
Yes No
- Do you have a bone or joint problem that could be worsened by engaging in physical activity?
Yes No
- What is your most recent blood pressure reading?
135/85
- What is your daily calorie intake?
Unavailable
Step 2 – determining readiness for change and prescription
| Stage of change | Action step |
| Pre-contemplation (unwilling to start being physically active) | · Promote healthy habits by informing client of the benefits of being physically active.
· Emphasize the advantages of changing behavior (Sally needs to spare some time for physical activity, in spite of her tight schedule) · Remind the client of the cons of being inactive (she will need to begin insulin therapy which will require her to be injected regularly and this will be financially strenuous) |
| Contemplation (willing to become physically active) | · Continually emphasize the pros of being physically active while reminding her of the cons of failing to be active.
· Prepare the client until she becomes receptive of guidance on how to become physically active. |
| Preparation | Write down a prescription that suits Sally’s physical and psychological state |
| Action | Begin with a moderate-intensity plan
Sally will be required to engage in light activities like brisk-walking, ballroom dancing, biking at a speed not exceeding 10mph, general gardening, or any similar activity (Marttila and Nupponen 420). |
| Maintenance | Spend time with people with similar health behaviors |
Work Cited
Marttila, J., and R. Nupponen. “Assessing Stage of Change for physical activity: how congruent are parallel methods?.” Health Education Research 18.4 (2003): 419-428.
Sallis, Robert E. “Exercise is medicine and physicians need to prescribe it!.” British journal of sports medicine 43.1 (2009): 3-4.
Nieman, David C., and John A. White. “The exercise health connection: how to reduce your risk of disease and other illnesses by making exercise your medicine.” Public Health 112.4 (1998): 277.