ACSM’s Initial Risk Stratification Table

Question 1

Low risk Asymptomatic men and women who have ≤ one CVD risk factor from table 9.1

Answer 1

≤ one CVD risk factor from table 9.1

Question 2

Moderate risk Asymptomatic men and women who have ≥ two risk factors from table 9.1

Answer 2

≥ two risk factors from table 9.1

Question 3

High risk

Answer 3

Individuals with
◾◾ known cardiac, peripheral vascular, or cerebrovascular disease; chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease, asthma, interstitial lung disease, or cystic fibrosis; or diabetes mellitus
(type 1 and 2), thyroid disorders, renal or liver disease, or
◾◾ one or more of the following signs or symptoms:
-Heart murmur
-Unexplained fatigue
-Dizziness or fainting
-Swelling of the ankles
-Fast or irregular heartbeat
-Unexplained shortness of breath
-Intermittent lameness or pain in calf muscles
-Breathing discomfort when not in upright position, or interrupted breathing at night
-Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, chest, arms, or elsewhere that could be caused by
lack of circulation