Measuring Cholesterol
I realize that this test (measuring levels of cholesterol in blood) is perhaps a little less common for gym instructors and personal trainers to perform. In fact, as I (GP) only perform fitness / health tests on occasions, I would be lying if I said I was proficient and didn't have to refer to measuring charts to double-check results. However, there'll be a few personal trainers reading this who'll specialize with deconditioned clients, which may (amongst other things) warrant testing their blood cholesterol levels, or may be the reason that their client's been referred in the first place. So, you should be familiar with blood testing procedures.
To perform the test, you'll need a cholesterol meter. Hopefully, suggested advertising links have popped up to the right with retailers within your region that offer blood testing devices. Most modern day devices are fairly accurate and lightweight, but you'll quite often have to buy disposable lancet devices and test strips in addition. Plus, although most blood testing devices offer personal storage information, you may want to purchase additional software. Read the operating instructions of your chosen blood testing device carefully to ensure that your results will be as accurate as possible.
Please find a cholesterol measuring chart below to help you correctly analyze your test results. Those with results highlighted in amber should consider certain lifestyle alterations, whereas those in the red should seek medical advice, if they haven't already. Blood cholesterol is measured in minimols of cholesterol per litre of blood (mmol/l) or milligrams of cholesterol per decilitre of blood (mg/dl), both are quoted below. If you'd like a conversion of mg/dl to mmol/l & vice versa, please click here.
2008