Curious About Medical Exercise Training? | 3 Important Things To Know

What is Medical Exercise Training and Is It Appropriate For You?

Medical Exercise Training is the development of safe, effective, structured, protocol based exercise programming for clients with medical conditions.

Medical Exercise Training typically uses strength training, flexibility training, cardiovascular training, balance training, functional conditioning, lifestyle education and assessments to manage your medical conditions and lifestyle needs.

Medical Exercise Training does not provide any aspect of medical treatment or diagnostics services; nor should it be used to replace the services provided by your licensed medical professional (i.e., physical therapists, massage therapists, dietitians, athletic trainers, chiropractors, nurses, and/or physicians).

Medical Exercise Training is based on the utilization of functional outcome measures to determine the effectiveness of the exercise program.

These functional outcome measures include:

  • Glucosolated Hemoglobin
  • Blood Pressure
  • Blood Glucose
  • Bone Density
  • Range of Motion
  • Muscle Strength Testing
  • Functional Assessment Scale
  • Cholesterol Levels
  • Pain Scale
  • Anthropometric Measures
  • Resting Heart Rate
  • Body Mass Index

Functional outcome measures are universally understood by both the medical community and fitness industry and can be easily used to determine the improvement of your overall level of function.

The use of functional outcome measures by medical exercise professionals differentiates them from personal trainers.

Personal training alone does not fully address the needs of medical professionals, individuals with medical conditions or insurance carriers.

Medical Exercise Training is essential in transitioning you from health care services to independent exercise and wellness programs.

Here are three important things to know about medical exercise training:

1. Individualized Approach

MET is highly individualized. Each program is tailored to the specific needs and conditions of the participant. A thorough assessment is conducted to identify limitations, strengths, and specific medical concerns, ensuring that the exercises are appropriate and safe for the individual’s health status.

2. Supervised by Qualified Professionals

MET is typically conducted under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, exercise physiologists, or rehabilitation specialists. This ensures that participants receive expert guidance, making the program safer and more effective, especially for those with chronic conditions or recovering from injury.

3. Focus on Health Outcomes

The primary goal of MET is to improve health outcomes and functional abilities. This may include pain management, enhancing mobility, restoring strength, and preventing further injury. Programs are designed to facilitate recovery and promote long-term health benefits, often incorporating education on lifestyle changes and self-management strategies.

Understanding these aspects can help individuals recognize the value of medical exercise training in their rehabilitation and overall health journey.

Jane appreciates the positive functional outcomes measures her training at TREBEL affords for her and her busy lifestyle.