Are You Medically Fit for Exercise?

It's a new year filled with new goals and resolutions. Many will commit to starting an exercise regimen or weight loss program but may not know where to start. Meals planning, shopping for fun and coordinated workout gear, gym membership, or even a bit of a splurge for a personal trainer. Sounds like a great start right? You'd be definitely on the right track! What if I asked if you were "medically fit" to participate in an exercise program? Keeping physically active is a key component in achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But, sometimes it's best to check with your doctor before you start to exercise. It's a great idea to obtain your baseline blood pressure and heart rate prior to starting a work out program. Testing such as an EKG to check your heart, lipid panel to check your cholesterol health, as well as basic metabolic panel to assess your electrolyte balance and hydration status. 

Regular exercise is important for overall health and can help control/reduce your weight, decrease the risk of heart disease, and improve muscle strengthening. You should always check with your doctor if you have any of the following:

• hypertension
• diabetes, type 1 or 2
• kidney disease
• heart disease
• cancer or recent cancer treatment

Knowing your health status is vital and maintaining routine check ups with your primary provider is just as important. Your Health Is Your Primary Wealth!