Everything you need to know about the new Vitality Fitness Assessment in 2017

The Vitality Fitness Assessment has been adapted to be more accurate, personalised and clinically relevant. Here are a few answers to some common questions about the new Vitality Fitness Assessment.

Why has the assessment been enhanced the way it has?

Vitality’s main focus is to make people healthier. The programme has been designed using the latest clinical and behavioural research to help incentivise a healthier lifestyle. Local and international research has shown that the Vitality programme improves the health outcomes of its Vitality members.

Cardiorespiratory fitness is one of the most important predictors of morbidity and mortality, so it is important that we use the most up-to-date technology and protocols to assess and advise you on how fit you are.

What can you expect from the new assessment?

The assessment is now made up of two parts – a cardiovascular test on a watt bike or treadmill, and a strength and flexibility test, the combination of which offer a well-rounded understanding of your fitness level.

What should you wear and take with?

You can expect to build up a sweat, so be sure to wear comfortable workout gear and running shoes. Bring a towel and some water too. You may need a shower when you are done, so be sure to book a time that is convenient for you.

Where can you do the Vitality Fitness Assessment?

You can do the new Vitality Fitness Assessment at any of our Discovery Stores, a Discovery Vitality Wellness Centre, Virgin Active health clubs, selected Planet Fitness Health Clubs and some individual biokineticists. We’ll keep updating the list on our website as the network expands.

How many points can you earn for doing the Vitality Fitness Assessment?

You can earn up to 7 500 points once a year, depending on how fit you are, for a completed Vitality Fitness Assessment. These points will count towards your overall annual fitness points cap.

How much does the Vitality Fitness Assessment cost?

The fee for the Vitality Fitness Assessment is R375. If you are a member of a medical scheme administered by Discovery Health (Pty) Ltd, you can claim this amount from your available day-to-day benefits, such as the Medical Savings Account or your Above Threshold Benefit.

How do I increase my HealthyGear cash back?

To increase your cash back up to 25% at your main partner, and to continue to get up to 10% cash back at the other partner, you need to find out your Vitality Age and do a Vitality Fitness Assessment. Even if you completed your Online Fitness Assessment during the course of 2016 you need to find out your Vitality Age this year in order to enjoy the increased cash back.

Can members that are pregnant / have a disability / have a medical condition complete the Vitality Fitness Assessment?

Physically active members with a heart or metabolic condition, or pregnant members, can do the sub-maximal fitness test on condition that they have written consent from their doctor.

Members who are unable to walk can do an arm ergometer test at certain biokineticists instead of the bike test.

Once you’ve done the Vitality Fitness Assessment, get active in a way that suits you to increase your fitness levels in 2017.