ACSM s Health-Related Physical Fitness Assessment Manual

1. ACSM’s Health-Related Physical Fitness Assessment Manual Chapter 3

2. Blood pressure Definition Blood pressure Pressure exerted against blood vessel walls (mostly arteries) every beat, expressed in millimeters of mercury. Systolic blood pressure Pressure exerted against blood vessel walls during ventricular contractions. Represents overall function of the left. Should it go up or down during exercise? Diastolic blood pressure The lowest blood pressure against blood vessel walls during ventricle filling. Signifies arterial peripheral resistance. Should it go up or down during exercise? Hypertension Chronically elevated resting blood pressure (either or both systolic/diastolic blood pressure). Hypotension refers to low blood presser (no “norms”) Every fitness professional should proficient at taking BP. Why? We are mostly concerned with measuring blood pressure at the level of the heart. Why? According to the ACSM what is considered hypertensive? Hypotension can cause dizziness and fainting There are no standards for BP during exercise  Every fitness professional should proficient at taking BP. Why? We are mostly concerned with measuring blood pressure at the level of the heart. Why? According to the ACSM what is considered hypertensive? Hypotension can cause dizziness and fainting There are no standards for BP during exercise  

3. Heart Rate Heart Rate Number of times the heart contracts (usually in one minute - BPM) No known standard – average RHR is approximately 60 BPM Marker of cardiovascular fitness. Why and How?

4. Blood Pressure Measurement Used in the decision making process regarding cardiovascular testing For accuracy, several measurements must be taken over time (two more visits). Why? How it works Pressure inside the cuff restricts blood flow within the artery No sound can be heard initially through the stethoscope Pressure is slowly released from the cuff – pressure inside the cuff is equal to the systolic pressure inside the artery. The first “Korotkoff” sound can be heard – take note of this number (systolic) Turbulent sound from blood flow can be heard The blood flow can no longer be heard when cuff pressure is equal to diastolic pressure within the artery. Individuals with high BP will have no outward signs – it is critical to measure before beginning an exercise program. “White coat syndrome” Follow the same procedures every time – reliability The accuracy of the cuff is within 10% of direct measurements *Ensure you know the procedures for taking blood pressure and heart rate. Individuals with high BP will have no outward signs – it is critical to measure before beginning an exercise program. “White coat syndrome” Follow the same procedures every time – reliability The accuracy of the cuff is within 10% of direct measurements *Ensure you know the procedures for taking blood pressure and heart rate.