What requirement is associated with moderate risk individuals according to ACSM?

Moderate risk individuals, as classified by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), are typically those who have two or more risk factors for cardiovascular disease but do not have any signs or symptoms of cardiovascular, pulmonary, or metabolic disease. The requirement associated with this classification is that physician clearance is advised for vigorous physical activity. This is because engaging in vigorous exercise presents a higher risk of adverse cardiovascular events compared to moderate activity. Therefore, prior to participating in strenuous activities, having a physician evaluate the individual's health status is critical to ensuring safety and mitigating potential health risks.

This requirement is particularly important, as it helps to establish a degree of caution for individuals who may not be undergoing routine health screenings or who have risk factors that could complicate their exercise regimen. In contrast, moderate intensity activities generally pose a lower risk, and those classified at moderate risk may not need a physician's approval to partake in such activities.