Should You Consult Your Doctor

We’ve all seen it before—that message at the beginning of a workout DVD or on a weight or cardio machine—the one that says, “consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program.” But is that true? Do you really need to pause that DVD or hop off the machine and call your doctor for an appointment right then?

Well, the answer is ‘yes.’ You do need to consult your doctor if certain things apply to you. Are you over 40 and inactive? Do you have a history of heart problems? Are you significantly overweight? Do you have a chronic medical condition? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions, it’s best that you visit your doctor for a check-up before you get started with a new exercise routine. That way he or she can make sure you’re healthy enough to do the activity you’ve chosen.

Also, if you’re an active person but you’re about to drastically change your exercise regimen—maybe you’re planning to participate in a marathon or triathlon—you should visit your doctor, just to be on the safe side.

The most important thing is just to know your body. If you are an active person and you don’t have any health problems, you’re probably safe to start a new program—just make sure you take it slow at first. If you feel any sort of chest discomfort or pain after starting the exercise, you should see your doctor and get checked out.

If you do go see your doctor before you get started, he or she may take your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and pulse rate and evaluate your current health and medical history. In some cases, maybe if you’re starting to exercise for the very first time, your doctor may conduct an exercise stress test to see how well your body will hold up to physical activity.

Your doctor may recommend certain safe activities based on health issues you have. For example, if you have osteoporosis, your doctor will probably tell you to avoid high-impact exercises because these can increase the risk of fracturing or breaking a bone. Also, if you’re pregnant or have a chronic medical condition, like diabetes, your doctor can direct you toward exercises tailored to your specific situation.

Once your doctor gives you the go-ahead, make sure you start out easy. If he or she gives you specific guidelines or limitations, be sure to follow them carefully. You may want to get periodic check-ups after starting the new exercise program just to make sure you’re on track.