Finally, the American College of Sports Medicine
recommends that you see your doctor before
engaging in vigorous exercise if two or more of the
following apply:
•
You are a man older than age 45 or a woman older
than age 55;
•
You have a family history of heart disease before
age 55;
•
You smoke or quit smoking in the past six months;
•
You have not exercised for three months or more;
•
You are overweight or obese;
•
You have high blood pressure or high cholesterol;
•
You have impaired glucose tolerance, also called
prediabetes.
Applications
When in Doubt — Check It Out
If you are unsure of your health status, have several
health problems, or are pregnant, you should speak
with your doctor before starting a new exercise
program. Working with your doctor ahead of time is a
good way to plan an exercise program that is right and
safe for you. Consider it the first step on your path to
physical fitness.
101
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