Do you measure your clients’ blood pressure?
Hi everyone. I’m studying for my senior fitness certificate, and the textbook mentions taking a client’s blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer – but it also says that a trainer should have formal training before doing so. This brings up a bunch of questions:
How common is it for personal fitness trainers to take blood pressure readings?
Where does one get training in taking BP readings?
Are electronic blood pressure monitors a reliable substitute for using the sphygmomanometer? And if so, do they require special training?
Do any of you have clients with BP issues who have been cleared by their doctor to exercise in a limited way? If so, how specific are the doctors’ instructions regarding prescribed/proscribed exercise?
I had initially decided that I just wouldn’t work with clients who have BP issues, but since I’m interested in working with older adults, that may not be a realistic plan.
Thank you!
Hi, I’m Diane C. Brown. Your experience is awesome. Thank you so much. That’s terrifically helpful information. I do have an electronic BP monitor that my wife and I use, but I’ll invest in a good one for the practice. I appreciate your taking the time to reply and share your expertise.http://onedaytop.com/health/
Hi Tom,
I would recommend checking blood pressure with any client that may seem like they are getting light headed during exercise. I had a client who seems like they were in great shape but almost past out after attempting a pull up.
Older populations are great to keep track of, but always keep tabs on your those who might be pushing harder than they should.
Cheers,
Devin
Hello Tom Borromeo,
BP readings are not hard to take; just takes practice. Enjoy your studies.
Yes, I take BP readings at the first consultation and periodically afterwards…this has brought up that the client forgot to take their BP medicine that day which solved that issue. Clients usually have a better reading at home which the doctor may like to compare to office readings.
The doctor’s instructions are usually basic: exercise with no restrictions, keep on low intensity, or write in one or two specifics; not hard to follow.
Take care,
Natalie aka NAPS 2 B Fit.