When your should check with your doctor first

Living a healthy lifestyle and keeping fit is key to a productive life. However if you have hereditary illness in the family it is best if you consult with a doctor or medical practitioner first.

Exercising regularily will aid you in controlling your weight, strengthen your bones and muscles and reduce your risk of medical ailments. However before you start of on your crusade to fitness and well being you may want to consult with other family members about hereditary illnesses and consult a physician.

Physical activity as a general rule is safe for a large percentage of people and I am a keen advocate of more exercise is better for you however at what cost, is the point. On discussing this with a most personal training experts the consensus is that you should talk with a doctor before exercising if any of the following apply

• You have hereditary illness like strokes in the family
• You have asthma or any form of lung disease
• You have had a previous heart attack
• You have had coronary artery bypass surgery
• You suffer from angina or chest tightening during exercise
• You have arthritis
• You suffer vertigo or loss of balance, dizziness or loss of consciousness when exercising
• You are on any form of medication to manage a physical condition
• Your Pregnant
• You are unsure of any of the above conditions and want to play it safe

Comments from the American College of Sports Medicine recommend that you see your doctor or physician if two or more of the following apply:

• You're 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 have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
• You smoke or you quit smoking in the past six months.
• You're overweight or obese.