Home Choosing a Qualified Exercise Professional (QEP)
Choosing a Qualified Exercise Professional (QEP)
Choosing a Qualified Exercise Professional (QEP)

Working with a qualified exercise professional  can help you achieve greater fitness more quickly, safely and comfortably. Here are some things to consider when looking for a professional who meets your needs and fits your personality.

 

Professional background.

  • Advanced and up to date certification from nationally and provincially recognized organizations.
  • Level of education in exercise physiology or sport science.
  • First aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) certification.
  • Experience or specialization with people of your activity level or particular needs (strength training, yoga, prenatal, older adult, cancer patient, etc.).
  • A commitment to taking ongoing courses or workshops.
  • Services offered.
  • Program based on your specific needs and goals.
  • Exercise sessions that are scheduled and supervised.
  • Regular review of your program and progress.
  • Regular feedback on your program and how you're performing specific activities.
  • Encouragement, support and motivation.
  • Education and advice about activities and equipment.
  • Understanding of your concerns and goals.
  • Style of working.
  • A personality that fits with yours and makes it easier to set goals, overcome barriers, learn skills, provide structure to your activities and stay motivated.
  • Good communication skills.
  • Ability to make you feel relaxed and comfortable.
  • Ask yourself:
    • Do you want someone who cheers you on and gives you positive feedback OR someone who challenges you?
    • Do you want someone who seems interested in helping you reach your goals and become independent in your own routine OR someone who will keep you dependent on them?
    • Do you want someone of the same gender?
    •  

Where to look.

  • Ask friends, family members or people you work with if they can recommend anyone.

  • Visit the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology directory (www. csepmembers.ca/english/search.asp) or call the Physical Activity Line to find someone in your area.

  • Visit your local fitness or recreation centre.

  • See for yourself.

  • Watch them at work. See if you're comfortable with their techniques and personality.

  • Ask them for references and testimonials from their clients.

  • Talk to some clients and see what they think.

 

Click to view the PDF version of this document: PDF File
Last Updated on Friday, 12 February 2010 14:31
 


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The health information provided on this sheet is only a guide. You also need to rely on your common sense and good judgment. If you receive advice from a doctor or health professional that does not agree with the information provided here, follow the advice of your doctor or health professional since it is based on your specific history and needs
  

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