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Background: The health benefits of routine physical activity and exercise are clear; however, increased physical activity can lead to elevated exposure to air pollution that increases the risks for adverse events. Within most Indigenous or rural communities in Canada there is limited monitoring of air quality so community members may unknowingly be at an increased health risk for adverse events while being active. Policy Components: An air quality monitor was placed outdoors in Lytton, BC, a rural First Nations community, from April 2019 ��� June 2021 and particular matter (PM1.0, PM2.5, PM10.0), inorganic matter (CO2, O3), temperature, pressure, and humidity were recorded during the two-year span. Evaluation: There were significant increases in particular matter (PM1.0, PM10.0) over the two-year sample period (p��� 0.05). There were significant relationships between the different particular matter sizes (i.e., PM1.0/2.5 (0.976), PM2.5/10.0 (0.999), and PM1.0/10.0 (0.965), respectively (p, The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol. 14 No. 3 (2021): Proceedings from the 8th International Society for Physical Activity and Health Congress

Background: The global COVID-19 health crisis resulted in a cessation of youth sport. While COVID-related restrictions were necessary to limit spread, the impact of interruptions to sport participation on children and youth during critical periods of development is unclear. Purpose: To examine parental perceptions of the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on their child���s sport participation. Methods: Parents and/or guardians of children/youth (between 6 and 18 years) registered in at least one organized sport in British Columbia, Canada completed an online survey. Questions asked parents about the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on their child���s sport development via 10-point Likert scales and open-ended responses. A descriptive analysis of the data was conducted and inductive thematic analysis was used to examined parental statements. Results: A total of 63 parents completed the survey, representing athletes ranging in age from 7 to 18 years (mean = 13.7, SD = 2.8) across 33 unique sports. Overall, parents perceived COVID had a major impact on sport participation and major emerging themes included concerns around lost opportunities for competition, decreased access to training and facilities, and a negative impact on mental health. Conclusions: The childhood and adolescent years are critical years for promoting sport engagement and establishing healthy physical activity behaviours. This data highlights parental concerns on their child���s physical and mental health in relation to COVID-19 restrictions on sport participation. A major question that emerges from this work is ���to what extent will cessation of sport impact youth sport participation and physical activity behaviours post-pandemic?��� Funding: No funding was provided., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol. 14 No. 3 (2021): Proceedings from the 8th International Society for Physical Activity and Health Congress

This article contains the current 2020 CONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIAL FRENCH version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (Questionnaire sur l'aptitude à l'activité physique pour tous (Q-AAP+)). This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the Q-AAP+., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol. 12 No. 4 (2019)

This article contains the current 2020 CONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIAL version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+). The new PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ were introduced officially at the 3rd International Congress on Physical Activity and Public Health in Toronto, Ontario, Canada (May 5-8, 2010) by Drs. Darren Warburton, Norman Gledhill, Veronica Jamnik, and Shannon Bredin. The first peer reviewed article containing the PAR-Q+ was published in the Health & Fitness Journal of Canada and subsequent updates have been made through this journal. Owing to the evidence-based nature of the PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ both forms require routine update as the evidence expands. These ongoing revisions are made by the PAR-Q+ Collaboration and evaluated by an international consensus committee. This article contains the 2020 PAR-Q+ that includes significant changes from our original version. This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the PAR-Q+. We are indebted to the support provided by the American College of Sports Medicine and other international partners in the ongoing evaluation of the 2020 PAR-Q+., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol. 12 No. 4 (2019)

This article contains the current 2019 CONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIAL version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+). The new PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ were introduced officially at the 3rd International Congress on Physical Activity and Public Health in Toronto, Ontario, Canada (May 5-8, 2010) by Drs. Darren Warburton, Norman Gledhill, Veronica Jamnik, and Shannon Bredin. The first peer reviewed article containing the PAR-Q+ was published in the Health & Fitness Journal of Canada and subsequent updates have been made through this journal. Owing to the evidence-based nature of the PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ both forms require routine update as the evidence expands. These ongoing revisions are made by the PAR-Q+ Collaboration and evaluated by an international consensus committee. This article contains the 2019 PAR-Q+ that includes significant changes from our original version. This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the PAR-Q+. We are indebted to the support provided by the American College of Sports Medicine and other international partners in the ongoing evaluation of the 2019 PAR-Q+., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 11 No 4 (2018)

This article contains the current 2019 CONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIAL FRENCH version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (Questionnaire sur l'aptitude à l'activité physique pour tous (Q-AAP+)). This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the Q-AAP+., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 11 No 4 (2018)

This article contains the current 2018 CONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIAL FRENCH version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (Questionnaire sur l'aptitude à l'activité physique pour tous (Q-AAP+)). This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the Q-AAP+., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 11 No 1 (2018)

This article contains the current 2018 CONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIAL version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+). The new PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ were introduced officially at the 3rd International Congress on Physical Activity and Public Health in Toronto, Ontario, Canada (May 5-8, 2010) by Drs. Darren Warburton, Norman Gledhill, Veronica Jamnik, and Shannon Bredin. The first peer reviewed article containing the PAR-Q+ was published in the Health & Fitness Journal of Canada and subsequent updates have been made through this journal. Owing to the evidence-based nature of the PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ both forms require routine update as the evidence expands. These ongoing revisions are made by the PAR-Q+ Collaboration and evaluated by an international consensus committee. This article contains the 2018 PAR-Q+ that includes significant changes from our original version. This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the PAR-Q+. We are indebted to the support provided by the American College of Sports Medicine in the revision of the 2018 PAR-Q+., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 11 No 1 (2018)

This article contains the current CONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIAL FRENCH version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (Questionnaire sur l'aptitude à l'activité physique pour tous (Q-AAP+)). This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the Q-AAP+., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 10 No 1 (2017)

This article contains the currentCONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIALFRENCH version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (Questionnaire sur laptitude l'activit physique pour tous (Q-AAP+)). This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the Q-AAP+., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 8 No 1 (2015)

This article contains the currentCONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIALversion of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+). The new PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ were introduced officially at the 3rd International Congress on Physical Activity and Public Health in Toronto, Ontario, Canada (May 5-8, 2010) by Drs. Darren Warburton, Norman Gledhill, Veronica Jamnik, and Shannon Bredin. The first peer reviewed article containing the PAR-Q+ was published in theHealth & Fitness Journal of Canadaand subsequent updates have been made through this journal.Owing to the evidence-based nature of the PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ both forms require routine update as the evidence expands. These ongoing revisions are made by the PAR-Q+ Collaboration and evaluated by an international consensus committee. This article contains the 2015 PAR-Q+ that includes significant changes from our original version. This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the PAR-Q+., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 8 No 1 (2015)

Exercise intolerance is common in persons living with Atrial Fibrillation increasing the risk for various secondary complications (such as stroke). Structured and individualized exercise prescription has been shown to be a highly effective means of addressing the increased risk for secondary complications. This document outlines the evidence-based best practice guidelines for developing individualized exercise prescriptions for persons living with Atrial Fibrillation. This includes a 5-page document that can be used by healthcare professionals and patients alike. This document has undergone a systematic evaluation, consensus panel review and approval process (consistent with the AGREE guidelines), and direct evaluation by healthcare professionals from across Canada. This process identified the various factors that need to be considered when determining the correct mode/type and intensity of exercise for persons living with Atrial Fibrillation. It was apparent that the application of generic physical activity guidelines (developed for healthy individuals) to the treatment of Atrial Fibrillation is not recommended. Based on a systematic evaluation of the literature and strong body of evidence, it was recommended that persons living with Atrial Fibrillation should engage in moderate intensity whole body aerobic activities progressing towards 60 min per session (3-5 days per week) for an improvement in quality of life and overall health status. Exercise sessions should also incorporate stretching, balance, and resistance exercises. Individuals next to exercise should progress towards this goal., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 7 No 2 (2014)

The new Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+) and the new online electronic Physical Activity Readiness Medical Examination (ePARmed-X+) pre-participation clearance and risk stratification strategy reduces markedly the barriers to physical activity participation.This includes paper and online versions of the new PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+. These forms are meant for everyone regardless of age, sex, or health status. The ePARmed-X+ is an easy to follow interactive program (www.eparmedx.com) that can be used to determine an individuals readiness for increased physical activity participation or a fitness appraisal. The ePARmed-X+ supplements the paper and online versions of the new PAR-Q+. Individuals who use the ePARmed-X+ have had a positive response to the follow-up questions on the PAR-Q+, or have been directed to the online program by a qualified exercise professional or another healthcare professional, owing to his/her current medical condition. At the end of the ePARmed-X+, it is possible that the participant is advised to consult a physician to discuss the various options regarding becoming more physically active. In this instance, the participant will be required to receive medical clearance for physical activity from a physician. Until this medical clearance is received, the participant is restricted to low intensity physical activity/exercise participation. This article outlines a form (i.e., the ePARmed-X+ Physician Clearance Follow-up) that assists physicians in the physical activity/exercise participation clearance process. This form is designed to expedite the clearance process for physicians further reducing the barriers to physical activity participation for those that serve to have the greatest benefits., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 7 No 2 (2014)

This article contains the currentCONSENSUS PANEL APPROVED AND OFFICIAL version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+). The new PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ were introduced officially at the 3rd International Congress on Physical Activity and Public Health in Toronto, Ontario, Canada (May 5-8, 2010) by Drs. Darren Warburton, Norman Gledhill, Veronica Jamnik, and Shannon Bredin. The first peer reviewed article containing the PAR-Q+ was published in theHealth & Fitness Journal of Canadaand subsequent updates have been made through this journal.Owing to the evidence-based nature of the PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ both forms require routine update as the evidence expands. These ongoing revisions are made by the PAR-Q+ Collaboration and evaluated by an international consensus committee. This article contains the 2014 PAR-Q+ that includes significant changes from our original version. This version replaces all previous versions. This is the current evidence-based and consensus panel approved version of the PAR-Q+., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 7 No 1 (2014)

Background: Accelerometers have a distinct advantage over pedometers in the capacity to assess accurately and comprehensively physical activity and sedentary behaviours. However, the widespread use of accelerometers has been limited owing to the marked cost difference between sensors. Recent technological advancements have allowed for the development of accelerometers that are more affordable, increasing the potential usage of accelerometers on a population level. The Tractivity motion sensor has recently been developed to monitor distance, steps, and time spent during physical activities. Purpose: To examine the validity of the Tractivity sensor to measure step counts in comparison to direct observation across a range of walking speeds. Methods: Ten participants (5 M; 5 F) were evaluated during four incremental stages of treadmill walking at 2.4, 3.1, 3.5, and 4.1 mph (in randomized order). Each exercise stage lasted 6 min in duration. Step counts were evaluated (in a blinded fashion) via direct observation (video analysis) and the Tractivity sensor. Results: The Tractivity device explained 99.2% of the variance in the actual counts with no evidence of systematic bias across exercise intensity. The average difference between Tractivity device and the criterion method was -3.05 steps (0.44%) across the range of walking speeds, with the majority of step counts being within 10 steps. There was no significant difference between step counts derived by the Tractivity sensor and direct observation. Conclusion: The Tractivity sensor is a valid measure of step counts in comparison to direct observation with less than 0.5% error across a range of walking speeds., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 6 No 3 (2013)

This contains the new Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+) for English North America. This link will also contain the revised, evidence-based, and consensus panel approved PAR-Q+ as it evolves over the years., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 4 No 2 (2011): The PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+

In 2007-2010, a critical evaluation was conducted of evidence-based support for the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) and the Physical Activity Readiness Medical Evaluation (PARmed-X) to determine whether further revisions of these forms were needed. The result of this process was an enhanced pre-participation screening and risk stratification strategy including the development of the new Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+) and the online ePARmed-X+. The present article summarizes the consensus panel recommendations (and associated Level and Grade of evidence) that formed the foundation for the new PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+. It is anticipated that this process will lead to marked reductions in the barriers to physical activity for the majority of Canadians., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 4 No 2 (2011): The PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+

This contains the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+) for French speaking North Americans (referred to as the Questionnaire sur laptitude l'activit physique pour tous (Q-AAP+)). This link will also contain the revised, evidence-based, and consensus panel approved Q-AAP+ as it evolves over the years., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 4 No 2 (2011): The PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+

This summary outlines the recent process employed to reduce barriers to physical activity participation for all persons (including those with established chronic disease and/or disability). These screening tools are intended for persons interested in becoming more physically active, allied health professionals, qualified exercise professionals, and physicians alike. Following is a point-by-summary of the process, the key recommendations and new risk stratification strategy, and the changes made to the pre-exercise screening forms. Further information regarding this process can be found at www.eparmedx.com., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 4 No 2 (2011): The PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+

Introduction: The Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) and the Physical Activity Readiness Medical Evaluation (PARmed-X) are internationally renowned pre-participation screening tools. However, these forms were developed without evidence-based support. Moreover, feedback from end-users highlighted the need for refinement. Purpose: To examine the evidence-based support for the PAR-Q and PARmed-X and identify if further revisions were warranted. Methods: Ten systematic reviews were conducted to establish the exercise-related risks and effective risk stratification in healthy individuals (including pregnant women) and persons with prominent chronic medical conditions. This process adhered to the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) Instrument. Key Findings: Habitual physical activity is associated with a reduced risk for over 25 chronic conditions and premature mortality. Moderate intensity physical activity on most days of the week is of benefit for most patients with chronic conditions. The risks associated with a physically inactive lifestyle are markedly higher than the transient risks seen following acute exercise (in healthy and clinical populations). Changes to the PAR-Q and PARmed-X: The result of this process was the development of a new and enhanced pre-participation screening and risk stratification strategy that serves to reduce the barriers to physical activity for Canadians across the lifespan (including those with various chronic conditions). This included the development of the new PAR-Q+ and the online ePARmed-X+. The new screening tools and risk stratification strategy are now evidence-based, and serve to greatly reduce the barriers to physical activity for all (including those living with a chronic medical condition)., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 4 No 2 (2011): The PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+

The Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+) and the electronic Physical Activity Readiness Medical Examination (ePARmed-X+) were created recently to reduce the barriers to physical activity participation for individuals with and without established chronic disease. Our primary purpose was to provide preliminary evidence on the effectiveness of these new forms for pre-participation screening and risk stratification. In particular, we sought to examine the new PAR-Q+ (and ePARmed-X+) risk stratification strategy in comparison to the previous PAR-Q. The new PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ risk stratification and pre-participation strategy reduced significantly the number individuals that were sent for medical referral in comparison to the PAR-Q (i.e., 0.8% vs. 15%, respectively). The reliability of the PAR-Q+ over a three month period was high (r = 0.99). Moreover, the new strategy demonstrated high sensitivity (0.90 (95% CI = 0.77-0.96)) and specificity (1 (95% CI = 0.99-1)) for determining those with and without hypertension, respectively. In conclusion, our preliminary evaluation of the new PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+ risk stratification and pre-participation strategy in comparison to the PAR-Q reveals that the new process reduces greatly the barriers to physical activity participation, with a high reliability, sensitivity, and specificity of measurement., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 4 No 2 (2011): The PAR-Q+ and ePARmed-X+

The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 4 No 1 (2011): Dr. Roy Shephard: A Tribute to the Dean of Exercise and Physical Activity Science.

Background The health and fitness industry has undergone considerable change in recent years. As part of this movement, we have observed a need for the regulation of the industry and the development of standards for personnel working within the field. In Canada, the term Qualified Exercise Professional was created recently to denote the level of training, education, and certification required for personnel working with varied asymptomatic and symptomatic populations. Purpose The primary purpose of this paper was to discuss the importance of Qualified Exercise Professionals in Canada. Methods A narrative review of the literature was conducted. Results There is clear evidence of the need for safe and effective physical activity/exercise interventions that improve the health and well being of Canadians. The risks associated with physical activity/exercise testing and training are extremely low. However, specialized training (such as that provided to Qualified Exercise Professionals) is warranted for work with varied populations (especially with individuals that are at higher risk for adverse exercise-related events). Conclusions Qualified Exercise Professionals are integral members of the allied health profession team working to promote widely the health benefits of physical activity in Canada. Their specialized training allows them to play central roles in the safe and effective physical activity/exercise interventions for asymptomatic and symptomatic populations., The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 2 No 2 (2009)

The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 3 No 1 (2010)

The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 1 No 1 (2008)

The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 1 No 1 (2008)

The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 2 No 2 (2009)

The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol 2 No 1 (2009)