PT MEDICALS

Personal training medicals (PT Medicals) is a health screening product of Hessington Health, a private health screening company. Hessington Health has been providing private national health screening medicals to their clients for over 20 years. Hessington Health has partnered with Tribe Gym to craft a bespoke health screening package for those individuals who would like to understand their health metrics in detail and to formulate a personal training strategy that is focused on their needs in a bespoke way. How do we achieve this?

Tracking health metrics is essential for understanding body composition, metabolic health, and physical fitness, leading to tailored interventions and improved health outcomes. We will provide you with a focused health report which will  give your personal trainer at Tribe a clear understanding of your general health and fitness, insight into your biological markers (calcium/vitamin D bone strength, cholesterol and diabetes-sugar levels) and your physical metrics. This will allow them to tailor your fitness plan specifically for your health needs, aiming to improve health as well as your fitness level.

BLOOD TESTS

We have created a core panel of blood tests that capture vital information about your current state of heath. These tests are used by your Tribe PT to determine the best type of exercise programme what will challenge and improve any concerns identified from the test such high cholesterol or borderline diabetes. The core tests and the rational for testing is illustrated below:

PT MEDICALS

MEDICAL HISTORY

A well documented medical history is essential for us to understand your health risk factors to certain disease conditions. This will influence our advice to the PT from Tribe who will be working on your fitness with you. We need to make sure that any health need is matched with the appropriate exercise plan to achieve the best health and fitness outcome. This partnership between medical screening and PT training experts allows us to create a bespoke health and fitness training plan.

FULL BLOOD COUNT: Ensure there is no sign of anaemia or inflammation in readiness for your PT
KIDNEY FUNCTION: Ensure there is no concerns about kidney disease and dehydration before you start PT
LIVER FUNCTION: Ensure there is no sign of liver damage before you start PT
BONE HEALTH: We check your calcium, phosphate and vitamin D to ensure you have good bone health before starting PT
DIABETES: We carry out a HbA1c blood test which screens you for diabetes. This will give your PT a good steer on the best programme for you
CHOLESTEROL: We carry out a full cholesterol breakdown to look for risk factors for heart disease. This will give your PT a good steer on the best programme for you
THYROID FUNCTION: Ensure an underactive thyroid has been excluded, a common reason why patients can struggle with their weight
TESTOSTERONE AND FREE ANDROGEN INDEX: Elevated blood testosterone concentrations can enhance muscle strength, speed and endurance. This is an essential test for those patients struggling with their weight and lethargy.

PHYSICAL HEALTH METRICS

Data is a vital tool in understanding health. We capture both medical data during this assessment as well as physical data often used in the gym environment. This data is referred to as Physical Health Metrics. We record the physical health metrics in 2 ways:

MEDICAL HEALTH METRICS:

BLOOD PRESSURE AND HEART CHECK

Before starting a rigours PT programme, it is important to make sure your BP is not too high. We will check your blood pressure and listen to your heart sounds to make sure you have been screened for heart murmurs that may be a contraindication to rigours exercise.

LUNG FUNCTION/CAPACITY

We carry out a lung capacity test to see if how healthy your lungs are. This test may inform your PT on specific exercises that my help improve your lung function if found to be poor.

ECG OF THE HEART

An ECG is an electrical reading of the heart. Its is a valuable test in screening for heart damage, arrhythmia concerns and screening of a strain on the heart. We recommend everyone should have this test before starting a rigours exercise programme.

PHYSICAL HEALTH METRICS

BODY MASS INDEX (BMI)

A numerical value derived from an individual’s weight and height (kg/m²).

WAIST-TO-HIP RATIO (WHR)

A measurement comparing the circumference of the waist to that of the hips.

BODY FAT PERCENTAGE

Proportion of fat relative to total body mass.

VISCERAL FAT LEVELS

Fat stored within the abdominal cavity around vital organs.

SKELETAL MUSCLE PERCENTAGE

Proportion of body mass composed of skeletal muscles.

SKINFOLD THICKNESS

Measures subcutaneous fat at specific body sites using calipers.

RESTING METABOLISM (RMR)

Energy required to maintain basic physiological functions at rest.

GRIP STRENGTH

Force exerted by hand muscles when gripping an object.

SUMMARY OF CORE SERVICES

BLOOD TESTS MEDICAL HEALTH METRICS PHYSICAL HEALTH METRICS
  • FULL BLOOD COUNT
  • KIDNEY FUNCTION
  • LIVER FUNCTION
  • BONE HEALTH
  • DIABETES
  • CHOLESTEROL
  • THYROID FUNCTION
  • BLOOD PRESSURE AND HEART CHECK
  • LUNG FUNCTION/CAPACITY
  • ECG OF THE HEART
  • BODY MASS INDEX (BMI)
  • WAIST-TO-HIP RATIO (WHR)
  • BODY FAT PERCENTAGE
  • VISCERAL FAT LEVELS
  • SKELETAL MUSCLE PERCENTAGE
  • SKINFOLD THICKNESS
  • RESTING METABOLISM (RMR)
  • GRIP STRENGTH

BODY MASS INDEX (BMI)

Definition: A numerical value derived from an individual’s weight and height (kg/m²).

IMPORTANCE:

Health Risk Assessment: Quickly identifies individuals at higher risk for conditions like cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

Population Health Monitoring: Tracks obesity trends and informs health policies.

Clinical Use: Assists in initial health assessments. Measurement Methods: Calculated using weight and height.

NORMAL LEVELS:

BMI is a calculation of your height and weight expressed as a ratio indicating whether you are obese or not. The ranges are set lower for ethnic minorities. We do not take the BMI too seriously as it is a crude test, and the calculation does not differentiate how much of the mass measurement is muscle and how much is fat. BMI represents one metric amongst many that we measure to evaluate your biometric physical profile.

WHITE/CAUCASIANS:

What BMI means for adults:

Between 18.5 and 24.9 – healthy weight.

Between 25 and 29.9 – overweight.

Between 30 and 39.9 – obese.

BMI of 40 or more – severely obese.

FOR ASIAN AND BLACKS THE BMI THRESHOLDS ARE:

Underweight: BMI under 18.5

Healthy weight: BMI 18.5 to 22.9

Overweight: BMI 23 to 27.4Obesity: BMI 27.5 or above

WAIST-TO-HIP RATIO (WHR)

Definition: A measurement comparing the circumference of the waist to that of the hips.

IMPORTANCE:

Health Risk Indicator: Strong predictor of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Body Fat Distribution: Provides insight into central versus peripheral fat.

Obesity Assessment: Evaluates abdominal obesity more effectively than BMI.

Measurement Methods: Calculated by dividing waist circumference by hip circumference.

NORMAL LEVELS:

Men: ≤ 0.90
Women: ≤ 0.85

BODY FAT PERCENTAGE

Definition: Proportion of fat relative to total body mass.

IMPORTANCE:

Health Assessment: Risk for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancers.

Performance Optimization: Athletes benefit for peak performance.

Weight Management: Guides weight loss or muscle gain.

Monitoring Progress: Tracks diet and exercise effectiveness.

NORMAL LEVELS:

Men: 6-24%
Women: 14-31%

VISCERAL FAT LEVELS

Definition: Fat stored within the abdominal cavity around vital organs.

IMPORTANCE:

Metabolic Health: Linked to metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes.

Inflammation and Insulin Resistance: High levels increase these risks.

NORMAL LEVELS:

Men: <1.0 litre
Women: <0.8 litre

SKELETAL MUSCLE PERCENTAGE

Definition: Proportion of body mass composed of skeletal muscles.

IMPORTANCE:

Performance Enhancement: Strength, power, and endurance.

Injury Prevention: Supports joints and bones.

Health and Longevity: Improves metabolic health and reduces chronic disease risk.

NORMAL LEVELS:

Men: 40-55%
Women: 30-45%

SKINFOLD THICKNESS

Definition: Measures subcutaneous fat at specific body sites using calipers.

IMPORTANCE:

Body Fat Estimation: Simple, cost-effective.

Fitness Assessment: Monitors body fat changes.

Health Monitoring: Assesses obesity-related health risks.

Measurement Methods: Skinfold calipers (triceps, biceps, subscapular, suprailiac, abdomen and thigh).

NORMAL LEVELS:

Men: 6-15 mm per site
Women: 12-20 mm per site

RESTING METABOLISM (RMR)

Definition: Energy required to maintain basic physiological functions at rest.

IMPORTANCE:

Weight Management: Informs caloric needs for diet planning.

Nutritional Planning: Tailors dietary intake.

Athletic Performance: Optimizes energy intake for training and recovery.

NORMAL LEVELS:

Men: 1,600-2,400 kcal/day
Women: 1,200-1,800 kcal/day

GRIP STRENGTH

Definition: Force exerted by hand muscles when gripping an object.

IMPORTANCE:

Overall Strength Indicator: Correlates with total body strength.

Health and Longevity: Associated with lower chronic disease risk and better cardiovascular health.

Injury Prevention: Reduces hand, wrist, and forearm injuries.

Performance: Enhances performance in sports requiring manual dexterity.

Measurement Methods: Handgrip dynamometer.

NORMAL LEVELS:

Men: 105-113 lbs (48-51 kg)
Women: 57-65 lbs (26-29 kg)
Understanding and tracking these metrics can significantly
enhance personal health, fitness, and performance.

CONCLUSION

Recording and monitoring these fitness and wellbeing metrics are crucial for individuals dedicated to optimising their health and performance. Regular assessments of body fat percentage, visceral fat levels, skeletal muscle percentage, skinfold thickness, resting metabolism, grip strength, BMI, and WHR provide comprehensive insights  into one’s physical condition. These metrics facilitate personalised fitness and nutrition programs, enhance athletic performance, prevent injuries, and promote long-term health and longevity. By understanding and managing these key health indicators, individuals can make informed decisions to achieve their fitness and wellbeing goals.

HEALTH ASSESSMENT DISCLAIMER

The following disclaimer outlines the scope of services provided by Hessington Health Ltd (“the Clinic”), a UK-based medical clinic offering health assessments to individuals, including those who participate in gym and fitness activities. By attending an assessment at Hessington Health Ltd, you acknowledge and accept the terms set out here in:

1 Scope of Assessment: The health assessments conducted by Hessington Health Ltd are intended solely to provide general information about the assessed individual’s health status at the time of the examination. These assessments are not exhaustive, diagnostic, nor do they constitute a comprehensive evaluation of one’s suitability or fitness for engaging in any form of physical exercise, gym activities, or other strenuous physical activities.

2 Non-Validation of Fitness for Exercise: Hessington Health Ltd expressly states that its health assessments do not constitute a validation, endorsement, or certification of an individual’s fitness or readiness for exercise, gym activities, or any specific physical training program. The assessments should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or consultation with a qualified healthcare provider, personal trainer, or exercise specialist regarding your fitness for exercise.

3 No Responsibility for Exercise Outcomes: Hessington Health Ltd disclaims any and all liability for adverse health outcomes, injuries, or any other negative consequences that may arise from the individual’s participation in exercise or physical activities following the health assessment. It remains the responsibility of the individual to seek appropriate medical advice before commencing or modifying any exercise or physical activity regimen, and to ensure such activities are undertaken in a safe and suitable manner.

4 Health Screeningrefers to the use of simple tests across an apparently healthy population in order to identify individuals who have risk factors or early stages of disease, but do not yet have symptoms (World Health Organisation).

  • Principles: The underlying concept of screening is that early detection of risk factors or early disease is beneficial for the clinical or public health outcome.
  • Limitations of Screening: Screening has important ethical differences from clinical practice as the health service is targeting apparently healthy people, offering to help individuals to make better informed choices about their health. However, there are risks involved and it is important that people have realistic expectations of what a screening programme can deliver. Whilst screening has the potential to save lives or improve quality of life through early diagnosis of serious conditions, it is not a fool-proof process. Screening can reduce the risk of developing a condition or its complications but it cannot offer a guarantee of protection. In any screening programme, there is an irreducible minimum of false positive results (wrongly reported as having the condition) and false negative results (wrongly reported as not having the condition). The UK National Screening Committee is increasingly presenting screening as risk reduction to emphasise this point. (UKNSC, nsc.nhs.uk)
  • Your Obligations & Rights: Any recommendations made in your report must be acted upon. If you are uncertain about the advice given please contact us by email ([email protected]) to book a phone appointment. It is YOUR responsibility to keep your primary care doctor (GP) informed of any recommendations we have made. We are happy to clarify any aspect of the medical report that we have provided, however you must be aware that the report is also a discharge document putting you back in the hands of your GP unless otherwise stated. If you notice any errors or omissions in this report you must inform us immediately using the email address provided earlier. By agreeing to have this medical assessment you have agreed to our general terms and conditions which can be found on our website (https://www.hessingtonhealth.com/terms-and-conditions/) or a copy can be provided on request. If you have any complaints about our service please email [email protected]. We will respond to your complaint within 7 working days of receiving it. Information about our privacy policy can be found on our website, hessingtonhealth.com/legalcomplianc

5 Limitation of Liability: To the fullest extent permitted by law, Hessington Health Ltd shall not be held liable for any loss, injury, damage, or adverse health outcome suffered by an individual as a result of, or in connection with, the use or reliance upon the information provided during the health assessment. This includes, but is not limited to, direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages.

6 Individual Responsibility: By undergoing a health assessment at Hessington Health Ltd, you acknowledge that you are fully responsible for your own health and wellbeing, including any decisions made based on the information provided during the assessment. You agree to hold Hessington Health Ltd harmless from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising out of or related to your participation in physical activities post-assessment.

6 Governing Law: This disclaimer and all matters arising out of or in connection with it shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with,the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising under or in connection with this disclaimer shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

If you have any concerns about your health or fitness for exercise, we strongly recommend consulting with your GP or a suitably qualified health professional before commencing any new physical activity.

Hessington Health Ltd
Registered in England and Wales
Company No: 08180824
Registered Office: Grove House, 2 Woodberry Grove N12 0GR