News

Updated Pre-Exercise Screening Guide released

Jul 31, 2025

 

The latest version of the Adult Pre-Exercise Screening Guide is now available, providing updated guidance to support safe and effective participation in physical activity across the health and fitness sectors.

Pre-exercise screening is an important first step in identifying individuals who may be at increased risk of an adverse event during physical activity. The Guide serves as a critical reference for health and exercise professionals in applying safe, evidence-based screening practices.

Sports Medicine Australia Chief Executive Officer Jamie Crain said the Guide continues to play a key role in promoting safety and professionalism across the sector.

“Knowing when and how to prescribe exercise is critical, and getting it wrong can carry serious consequences,” said Mr Crain. “The Adult Pre-Exercise Screening Guide gives practitioners the confidence to identify when exercise is safe, and when further medical advice is needed. It’s an essential tool for protecting the health of participants and upholding professional standards,”

“We’re proud to continue supporting evidence-based resources like this for the benefit of Australia’s active community,” Mr Crain added.

This updated edition was comprehensively reviewed by Professor Kevin Norton to ensure it reflects the most current international evidence and trends in exercise prescription.

“The Guide has been updated to reflect international trends in exercise prescription for people who are starting an exercise program,” said Professor Norton. “It provides consistency for both consumers and professionals and sets a benchmark for the standard of care in fitness-related health promotion.”

Access the updated Adult Pre-Exercise Screening Guide on the SMA website.