1. About.com
  2. Health
  3. Exercise

Discuss in my forum

Exercise for Beginners - Medical Clearance

When to see your doctor

By , About.com Guide

Updated September 01, 2011

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Exercise for Beginners - Medical ClearancePricegrabber/Spike Mafford
You don't always need to see your doctor before you start exercising, but you should make an appointment if:
  • You've been diagnosed with heart problems, high blood pressure or other medical conditions
  • You've been sedentary for over a year
  • If you're over 65 and don't currently exercise
  • You're pregnant or you're having difficulty getting pregnant
  • You have diabetes
  • You ever experience chest pains, dizziness or fainting spells
  • You're recovering from an injury or illness
  • You have a diagnosed medical condition or illness

Use your best judgment and see your doctor if you have any questions about what you should be doing. Even if you don't have any problems, you may want to get a full check-up before you start exercising, especially if it's been a long time since you've worked out.

Back to Exercise for Beginners

More About Getting Started with Exercise

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved. 

A part of The New York Times Company.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.