Before beginning or increasing physical activity, you should take some precautions to ensure a healthy start. To avoid soreness and injury, start out slowly and gradually build up to the desired amount to give your body time to adjust.
Most healthy individuals can safely start a light to moderate exercise program without much concern.
However, if you have such chronic health problems as heart disease, diabetes, asthma or obesity, you should first consult your doctor before increasing your level of physical activity. Also, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends that healthy women over 50, and men over 40, who wish to start a vigorous exercise program should check with their doctor to make sure they do not have risk factors for heart disease or any other health problems. The Johns Hopkins University. All rights reserved. Inteli-Health Inc. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions.