Introduction

T he Get Active Questionnaire (GAQ) was suggested for use in Singapore in 2019. Soon after, concern was expressed at the complexity and difficulty in self-administering the GAQ. This study was to assess difficulties in understanding the questionnaire, determine the ability of the GAQ in identifying adults who may be unfit for moderate or intense physical activity (PA) and require medical referral before engaging in such activity, and obtain feedback on its ease of use.

Method

A randomized, cross-sectional survey involving a wide spectrum of members of the public was conducted. Participants were asked to provide their bio-characteristics, complete the GAQ, and feedback on its ease of use.

Results

Of 1043 participants enrolled, about 32.9% may not be fit for moderate or intense PA and would have required further medical evaluation before engaging in such activity. Of the 9 GAQ questions, two understood with significant difficulty, 3 with moderate difficulty and 4 with slight difficulty. Generally, participants with co-morbidities exercised less and encountered more difficulty, though this was only significant statistically for the question on heart disease, stroke and loss of consciousness / fainting. The length of each question was a matter of concern for 24.3% of participants and so was the use of technical terms for 23.1%. There was no provision for heat illnesses. Suggestions were provided by participants on areas where improvements may be made to the wording of the questions.

Conclusion

T here is a need to simplify and revise the GAQ before it gains easy acceptability.