Before You Start

Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire

Known as a PAR-Q, this is a standard, internationally-used screening tool to help you work out whether you should check with a doctor before starting or increasing physical activity.

Based on the PAR-Q+ format. For personal reference only — nothing on this page is submitted, stored, or seen by anyone but you.

This isn't a medical assessment. It's a starting checklist. If you answer "yes" to any question, it doesn't mean you can't train — it means it's worth a conversation with a doctor first about what's safe and appropriate for you.

01Has a doctor ever told you that you have a heart condition, or that you should only perform physical activity recommended by a doctor?

Yes No

02Do you feel pain in your chest when you perform physical activity?

Yes No

03In the past month, have you had chest pain when you were not performing physical activity?

Yes No

04Do you lose your balance because of dizziness, or have you lost consciousness in the past 12 months? (Please answer yes if your dizziness was associated with over-breathing, including during vigorous exercise.)

Yes No

05Have you ever been diagnosed with another chronic medical condition (other than heart disease or high blood pressure)?

Yes No

06Are you currently taking prescribed medication(s) for a chronic medical condition?

Yes No

07Do you have a bone, joint, or soft tissue problem that could be made worse by a change in your physical activity?

Yes No

08Has your doctor ever said that you should only do medically supervised physical activity?

Yes No

No flags raised. Based on your answers, you're likely fine to start a general, gradually progressive strength training programme. If anything changes — new symptoms, an injury, or a new diagnosis — it's worth re-checking before you continue.

Worth a conversation with your doctor first. One or more of your answers suggests it's sensible to check with a doctor before starting or significantly increasing physical activity. This is a precaution, not a diagnosis — many people with a "yes" answer here go on to train safely once cleared.

This questionnaire is adapted from the widely-used PAR-Q+ format and is provided for general guidance only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Bar & Bell is not responsible for decisions made based on this self-assessment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition before beginning any exercise programme.