2008 Volume 5 Issue 2 Pages 115-122
Specific medical checkups and health guidance procedures to prevent and alleviate metabolic syndrome in middle-aged or older subjects (aged 40–75 years old) were initiated in workplaces and autonomous communities throughout Japan in April 2008, according to the guidance of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare of Japan. As it is important to provide instruction regarding exercise, physical activities and diet, a safe and efficient evidence-based instruction program is required. The requirements for such a program are as follows: (1) knowledge of necessary exercise and physical activity levels for prevention and alleviation of metabolic syndrome; (2) ability to appropriately evaluate the physical activity level of subjects; (3) motivation of subjects to positively modify their behavior; (4) sufficient consideration of exercise and diet combination; (5) conducting sufficient risk management to prevent accident and injury; and (6) acquiring necessary licenses for instruction. The subject should then actively engage in exercise and physical activity based on the instruction given.
