Heart Disease Prevention - Before Starting an Exercise Program

Starting a daily exercise program:

It is always important to consult your physician before starting an exercise program. This is particularly true if any of the following apply to your current medical condition:

• chest pain or pain in the neck and/or arm

• shortness of breath

• a diagnosed heart condition

• joint and/or bone problems

• currently taking cardiac and/or blood pressure medications

• have not previously been physically active

• dizziness

• obesity

If none of these apply to you, start gradually and sensibly. However, if you feel any of the physical symptoms listed above when you start your exercise program, contact your physician right away.

If one or more of the statements listed above applies for you, see your physician before beginning an exercise program. An exercise-stress test may be used to help plan your exercise program.