PAR-Q renewal guidance for UK trainers
How Often Should Clients Update a PAR-Q?
Practical, no-fluff guidance on when clients should redo a PAR-Q and how often to review it in a UK personal training setting.
Short Answer Summary
For UK fitness professionals, best practice is to have clients update their PAR-Q at least once every 12 monthsand whenever their health status changes. Many trainers also refresh it at the start of a new training block, after a long break, or if new risks emerge.
If you need a refresher on what a PAR-Q is and why it matters, review the What is a PAR-Q guide.
Why PAR-Qs Need Updating
Client health can change quickly
New diagnoses, medications, injuries, or pregnancy can change a client's risk profile and require a fresh screening.
Insurance and duty of care expectations
UK insurers, REPs, and CIMSPA guidance expect up-to-date health screening to support professional standards.
Training plans evolve
Changes in intensity, environment, or new activities (e.g. lifting, conditioning, outdoor sessions) may require a fresh review.
Clear documentation protects everyone
Updated screening forms show you acted responsibly and can be important for audit trails or incident reviews.
Recommended Review Frequency
Minimum: Every 12 months.
Common trainer workflow: At onboarding, at the start of each new training block, and after any significant change in health or lifestyle.
High-risk clients: Review more frequently and document any GP or specialist clearance.
Situations That Require a New PAR-Q
- A new medical diagnosis (e.g. cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, respiratory conditions).
- Starting, stopping, or changing prescribed medication (blood pressure, heart, asthma, or mental health medications).
- Injury, surgery, or a new musculoskeletal issue that affects training.
- Pregnancy or postnatal return to exercise (seek updated clearance where needed).
- A break from training of 3 months or more, or a lifestyle change that affects health.
- Any new "yes" responses on the original screening questions.
Best Practice for Trainers
- Set a clear review cadence (e.g. every 12 months or each new programme) and communicate it at onboarding.
- Use a short health change check-in before each block so clients flag changes early.
- Record the completion date and keep a simple reminder system so you don't miss renewals.
- If a client answers "yes", pause training intensity and request GP clearance where appropriate.
- Keep your documentation aligned with your insurance provider and professional body guidance.
For additional UK-specific guidance, visit PAR-Q for Personal Trainers UK, or compare digital PAR-Q vs paper workflows for renewal tracking options.
Key Takeaways
- Renew PAR-Qs at least annually.
- Redo immediately after any health or medication changes.
- Use a consistent review point at the start of each training block.
- Document everything and follow GP clearance guidance.
Keep renewal reminders effortless
If you want a low-friction way to manage renewals and keep records tidy, Simple PAR-Q can help.
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