In collaboration with Sports Medicine Australia (SMA), and Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA), Fitness Australia is pleased to announce the launch of the newly developed Pre-Exercise Screening System for Young People (PSS-YP) which includes Screening Tools for both parents and young people, as well as a User Guide.

Fitness Australia CEO Barrie Elvish said the new Pre-Exercise Screening System for Young People was an important extension to the adult version already available, which is widely used by the industry.

Mr Elvish said:

“As the younger generation becomes more active in fitness facilities and outdoor exercise programs, this will be a vital tool for businesses, exercise professionals and consumers.”

“This new pre-exercise screening system, specifically designed for younger people will help to minimise the risk of injuries associated with participating in exercise and physical activity, while still promoting physical activity, which we know is so important to manage and maintain mental health and well-being.

“This is a variation of the Adult Pre-Exercise Screening System, as the existing system does not adequately assess the distinct potential risks for children/young people. The introduction of PSS-YP will play an important role in delivering high quality, safe, and age-relevant exercise programs while simultaneously raising the credibility of the fitness industry.”

ESSA Chief Executive Officer Anita Hobson-Powell said the development of this new system for young people was a significant opportunity for all organisations to work together for the benefit of all Australians.

Ms Hobson-Powell said:

“The PSS-YP is an important tool for the entire industry and benefits not only the professionals but also the Australians who visit a health and fitness professional for the first time. The development of this new tool has provided a great opportunity for all three organisations to collaborate.”

Sport & Exercise Physician and Member of Sport Medicine Australia’s Community Sport Medical Advisory Working Group said the initiative was filling an important gap.

Dr Robert Reid said:

“The PSS-YP fills an important gap in making sure that teenagers and children can safely start an exercise program. Everybody needs to exercise regularly and this tool, which is easy to use and very comprehensive, fits well with Sports Medicine Australia’s philosophy and ethos. I highly recommend using this tool.”

It is anticipated that this system will improve the identification of risk and subsequent client education and management. The content of the tool is based upon the latest available evidence and is annexed by a User Guide that provides an explanation of terms and processes for use. 

An associated piece of research to evaluate feasibility titled ‘Evaluating the feasibility of a Pre-Exercise Screening System for Young People’ is planned to be published this year.

For more information on the Pre-Exercise Screening System for Young People (PSS-YP) and User Guide go to https://fitness.org.au/pss-yp.