Which is the first step in the Cooper Institute 5 Step Fitness Program?

Which is the first step in the Cooper Institute 5 Step Fitness Program?

• A. Fitness & Nutrition Assessments
• B. Medical Screening
• C. Goal Setting
• D. Consistent Exercise

Answer: (B)

Medical screening is the first step because it ensures safety before any exercise begins. By reviewing medical history, current symptoms, medications, and risk factors, it identifies conditions that may require medical clearance or supervision and helps tailor the program to each individual. This foundation protects you from adverse events and guides what level of activity is appropriate. Once safety is established, you can move on to fitness and nutrition assessments to establish baselines, set realistic goals, and design a plan. Skipping screening could miss important health issues and make starting an exercise program risky.

Medical screening is the first step because it ensures safety before any exercise begins. By reviewing medical history, current symptoms, medications, and risk factors, it identifies conditions that may require medical clearance or supervision and helps tailor the program to each individual. This foundation protects you from adverse events and guides what level of activity is appropriate. Once safety is established, you can move on to fitness and nutrition assessments to establish baselines, set realistic goals, and design a plan. Skipping screening could miss important health issues and make starting an exercise program risky.