How to create a physical activity readiness questionnaire (par-q)

The most effective way to create a PAR-Q is to use the industry-standard 'PAR-Q+' version, which is widely recognised by UK insurers and professional bodies. Rather than writing your own questions from scratch, downloading and customising the evidence-based PAR-Q+ form ensures you are asking the right clinical questions to determine if a client is safe to exercise or if they require medical clearance from a GP first.

What is a PAR-Q?

The Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) is a simple, self-guided screening tool. It usually consists of seven 'yes' or 'no' questions regarding the client’s heart health, bone or joint issues, and general wellbeing. In the UK fitness industry, having a completed and signed PAR-Q for every client is a non-negotiable requirement for professional indemnity insurance.

How to source your PAR-Q

You do not need to be a medical professional to provide this form. Most personal trainers follow one of these three routes:

• Download the PAR-Q+: Visit the official PAR-Q+ website (eparqued.com) to download the most up-to-date version of the form. This version is designed to reduce the number of unnecessary doctor referrals while still catching high-risk individuals.
• Template libraries: Many professional bodies (such as CIMSPA) or insurance providers offer free templates for their members.
• Digital fitness software: If you use a personal training app, the PAR-Q is often built into the onboarding workflow for you.

Customising the form

While you should never change the wording of the core health questions, you should customise the document to make it professional and functional for your business. Ensure you include:

• Your business name and logo at the top.
• A section for the client’s full name, date of birth, and contact details.
• An Emergency Contact section (name and phone number).
• A signature and date line for the client.
• A clear 'Next Steps' section explaining what happens if they answer 'Yes' to any questions.

How to handle 'Yes' answers

If a client answers 'Yes' to one or more questions, do not panic, but do not start training them yet. Generally, you should follow these steps:

1. Clarify: Ask the client for more detail. For example, if they have a joint problem, which joint is it and does it limit their movement?
2. Refer: If the health issue is outside your expertise or the PAR-Q instructions suggest it, advise the client to speak with their GP. Provide them with a copy of their PAR-Q to show the doctor.
3. Obtain clearance: Only proceed once the client has received written confirmation from a medical professional that they are fit to start an exercise programme.

Pro Tip: Keep your PAR-Q digital where possible. Using a tool like Google Forms or Typeform makes it easier for clients to complete before their first session and ensures you don’t have to worry about reading messy handwriting or losing physical pieces of paper.

Data protection and storage

Because a PAR-Q contains sensitive health information, you have a legal duty under UK GDPR to store it securely. If using paper, it must be in a locked filing cabinet. If digital, the file must be password-protected or stored on a secure, encrypted cloud platform. You must keep these records for at least seven years to comply with most insurance policies, even if the client stops training with you.