IB Syllabus focus: 'Exercise selection must consider target groups, including children and adolescents, older adults and individuals who are pregnant. Suitability depends on individual needs and safety considerations.'
Choosing the right exercise is not only about fitness; it is about matching activity to life stage, physical condition, and risk so that benefits are gained safely and consistently.
Why exercise selection must vary
Exercise is not one-size-fits-all. A suitable activity for a teenager, an older adult, or a pregnant individual may differ in mode, impact, supervision, and risk level. These differences reflect variations in growth, balance, joint stress, fatigue, and medical considerations.
A good exercise choice should:
support the person’s health, function, and confidence
match their current ability and experience
minimize unnecessary risk
be realistic enough to encourage regular participation
Principles of suitable exercise
When selecting exercise for any target group, practitioners should consider:
Practice Questions
FAQ
Chronological age does not always match biological maturity.
One 14-year-old may be in a rapid growth phase, while another may be physically more mature and better able to control load, balance, and coordination. This affects exercise choice, supervision needs, and skill progression.
Some medications can affect:
balance
blood pressure
alertness
heart rate response
This means an older adult may need more gradual position changes, closer supervision, or simpler movement patterns. In some cases, rating of perceived exertion may be more useful than heart rate alone when judging how hard the exercise feels.
Pelvic floor exercises help train the muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and uterus.
They may help improve support and control during and after pregnancy, especially as body mass and intra-abdominal pressure increase. They are usually low risk, require little equipment, and can be included alongside other gentle activities.
Yes, it can be very useful for both older adults and pregnant individuals.
The water reduces impact on joints and may make movement feel more comfortable. It can also improve confidence in those who feel unstable on land. However, pool access, water temperature, and swimming ability still need to be considered before choosing aquatic exercise.
Adherence improves when exercise feels achievable, relevant, and enjoyable.
Helpful strategies include:
setting short-term goals
giving clear technique cues
offering movement options
using social support
choosing activities linked to daily life or comfort
Safety should still come first, so progression and exercise choice should be adjusted without removing all challenge.
