What is one of the overall goals of risk stratification in exercise programs?

One of the overall goals of risk stratification in exercise programs is to increase the safety of exercise participants. Risk stratification involves assessing an individual's health status, medical history, and any potential risks prior to initiating an exercise program. This process helps identify those who may need special considerations, such as modification of exercise intensity or types of activities, to ensure that participants can engage safely in physical activities. By categorizing individuals based on their risk levels, exercise professionals can tailor programs to fit each person's needs, ensuring that safety is prioritized and that potential hazards associated with exercise are adequately managed.

While eliminating all risks associated with exercise is an ideal goal, it is important to acknowledge that some level of risk will always exist when engaging in physical activity. The focus is not on completely eradicating risk but rather on minimizing it through careful planning and monitoring. Additionally, increasing the complexity of exercise or ensuring maximum exertion are not aligned with the primary objective of risk stratification, which centers around safety and health outcomes.