Kuntoarvio

Kuntoarvio is a Finnish term for a physical fitness assessment used to evaluate an individual’s health-related fitness and functional capacity. It is typically employed to plan, monitor and evaluate exercise programs, rehabilitation efforts or preventive health measures. The assessment is conducted by healthcare professionals such as physicians, physiotherapists or occupational health nurses, or by qualified fitness professionals, and can be requested by the person themselves or prescribed as part of treatment or rehabilitation.

A typical kuntoarvio combines review of medical history and risk factors with measurements of lifestyle and current activity level. Common elements include measurements of height, weight and body composition, blood pressure, and, when indicated, other cardiovascular risk assessments. The assessment also uses a battery of tests to gauge cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, balance and mobility. Examples of tests may include submaximal cardiovascular tests, walking or cycling tests, grip and leg strength assessments, sit-to-stand tests, and functional mobility evaluations. The exact tests used depend on the person’s age, health status and goals.

Results from the assessment are used to create a personalized exercise prescription and to monitor progress over time. A kuntoarvio can help identify medical conditions requiring treatment or clarification before starting an exercise program and can inform risk assessment for activities or return-to-work decisions. It is commonly provided in primary care, occupational health services, sports clinics and Finnish public health or sports organizations. The availability and scope of kuntoarvio vary by region and setting.