An indication of a good exercise program is if the fitness instructor or physical therapist asks you to complete a health questionnaire before starting the program, performs a personal fitness assessment and discusses your concerns and goals with you. In addition, if you have low bone density or osteoporosis, ask them the following questions:
1. Through what organization are you certified? The following fitness organizations are the only organizations that are 3rd party accredited and meet the standards for the National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA).
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
- National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
- National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA)
- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
2. For Pilates Teachers…. are you PMA Certified through the Pilates Method Alliance?
3. For Yoga Teachers…. are you a certified yoga teacher?
4. Are you certified in CPR – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation?
5. Have you had special training in working with osteoporosis and low bone density?
6. Will I be participating in group or private sessions?
7. Specifically about osteoporosis and low bone density…
- Do you know how to interpret a bone mineral density report? This very important question indicates the instructor’s knowledge about osteoporosis. The answer should be YES!
- Will my program include: spine flexion exercises? forward bending? hip rotation stretches? These movements are dangerous to more fragile bones. The right answer is NO!
- Will balance exercises and fall prevention be included in the program? All good programs should include balance and fall prevention. The answer should always be YES!
- Will “transfer training” (moving from chair, bed, car, stairs, etc. with appropriate alignment and posture) and “activities of daily living” be addressed? These are important movements that you do everyday. The answer should be YES!
