RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CARDIOVASCULAR SCREENING, STAFFING, AND EMERGENCYPOLICIES AT HEALTH FITNESS FACILITIES/

The promotion of physical activity is at the top of our national publi c health agenda. Although regular exercise reduces subsequent cardiova scular morbidity and mortality, the incidence of a cardiovascular even t during exercise in patients with cardiac disease is estimated to be 10 times that of otherwise healthy persons. Adequate screening and eva luation are important to identify and counsel persons with underlying cardiovascular disease before they begin exercising at moderate to vig orous levels. This statement provides recommendations for cardiovascul ar screening of all persons (children, adolescents, and adults) before enrollment or participation in activities at health/fitness facilitie s. Staff qualifications and emergency policies related to cardiovascul ar safety are also discussed.