Consult a physician before exercise

Before beginning any exercise program, it may be recommended that person first consult a physician or other qualified health care provider. A physician or other health care provider can determine what type of exercise, the frequency, and the intensity are appropriate for each individual. A physician or other health care provider may be able to recommend an exercise program that will cater to a person's specific heath concerns and needs.

Below is a chart and explanation from the American College of Sports Medicine on recommendations for receiving a Graded Exercise Test (GXT) before beginning an exercise program.

Risk stratification	Moderate intensity exercise (40% - 59% maximum oxygen consumption)	Vigorous intensity exercise (60% maximum oxygen consumption)
Low	GXT not necessary	GXT not necessary
Men aged <45 and women aged <55 years with ≤1 coronary heart disease risk factor & asymptomatic
Moderate	GXT not necessary	GXT recommended
Men aged 54 and women aged 55 years or those with ≥2 coronary heart disease factors
High	GXT recommended	GXT recommended
Individuals with symptoms of disease or known cardiovascular, pulmonary, or metabolic disease

* Coronary risk factors include family history, cigarette smoking, hypertension, dyslipidemia, impaired fasting glucose tolerance, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle.

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