Writing the Exercise Prescription: An Individualized Approach

Abstract

In brief: An exercise prescription must include specific instructions for the type, intensity, frequency, and duration of exercise. After a gradual exercise initiation period over several weeks, a goal of 20- to 60-minute sessions, three times per week, can maintain cardiovascular fitness. While the recommended duration of exercise per session will vary with the intensity, each session should contain five- to ten-minute warm-up and cool-down periods. In attempting to decrease attrition in an exercise program, the exercise prescription can be individualized by considering specific factors, such as identified risk factors of disease and involvement of friends and family.