LEE-ANNE WANN © Lee-Anne Wann Limited 2011

Often exercise programs or advise on exercise will say to check with your Doctor before beginning and I get my clients asking me if this is really necessary.  Do you really need to do this? 

It always pays to be safe rather than sorry and I would advise on checking with your Doctor or fitness professional before embarking on new exercise choices.  Although your daily lifestyle needs to include some kind of exercise or movement in order for you to simply remain healthy and remain active as you become older, there are movements and fitness programs out there that may not be suitable for particular people and in fact could be harmful to them.  This is when it really is a must for people to check with their Doctors before beginning any new exercise regime or altering their existing regime. 

I can say, most physical activities are quite safe but just when a person needs to see his or her doctor honestly isn't really known.  Most experts suggest you talk to your doctor if any of the following apply to you and of course if you are unsure or concerned about anything:

• You have suffered a heart attack
• You have asthma or lung disease.
• You have diabetes or heart, liver or kidney disease.
• You feel pain in your chest, joints or muscles during physical activity.
• You have arthritis or osteoporosis.
• You've had joint replacement surgery.
• You experience symptoms such as loss of balance, dizziness or loss of consciousness.
• You take medication to manage a chronic condition.
• You have an untreated joint or muscle injury, or persistent symptoms after a joint or
  muscle injury.
• You are pregnant.
• You are unsure of your health status.

Although it may feel like a hassle and waste of time, working with your doctor ahead of time is one of the best ways to plan and prepare for an exercise program that's right for you. Consider it the first step on the path to physical fitness and ultimate well-being.

Lee-AnneWann info & tip sheets are designed for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical advice or professional medical services. The information contained on this page is intended as an aid to fitness and wellness maintenance. Any medical or other decisions should be made in consultation with your qualified health care provider.