Staying Fit and Healthy
General Guide to Fitness and Health
Health and fitness are closely connected.
For example, did you know that walking
two miles a day for 5 days a week can reduce the risk of a heart attack
by 28 percent? See how easy it is to stay fit and healthy? Walking (outdoors
or on a treadmill
at home or in the gym) is an excellent way to improve your health, and
it's easy to fit into most lifestyles.
Exercise Injury vs. Health Risk of Obesity
Most fitness experts say that, compared to
the health risks of prolonged inactivity or obesity, exercise involves
minimal health or injury risks for someone in good health or those following
a doctor's advice. However, there are times when it's important to have
a health-check before exercising.
When to Have a Health-Check Before Exercising
If you are under 35 and in good health, you
don't need to check your health with a doctor before beginning an exercise
or fitness program. If you are over 35 and have been inactive for several
years, you should check with doctor before embarking on any kind of fitness
plan. Your doctor may recommend an exercise-test.
Physical Conditions Which May Restrict Exercise
In addition, if you suffer (or suspect you
may suffer) from high blood pressure (hypertension), cardiovascular heart
problems, family history of premature stroke or heart attack, dizzy spells,
breathing difficulties after mild exertion, arthritis or bone trouble,
muscular, ligament or tendon problems, you should definitely check your
health status with your doctor.
Sources include:
- President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention
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