Exercise: Before Starting an Exercise Program

Talk with your provider

It’s always important to talk with your healthcare provider before starting an exercise program. This is especially true if you currently have, or have had, any of the following:

• Diabetes 

• Chest pain or pain in the neck or arm

• Shortness of breath

• A diagnosed heart condition

• Joint or bone problems

• You use blood pressure medicines

• Lack of physical activity

• Dizziness

• Obesity

• Recent surgery

• History of falls

• History of balance problems

When beginning an exercise program, start slowly. If you feel any of the following symptoms when you start your exercise program, contact your healthcare provider right away:

• Chest pain or pain in the jaw, neck, or arm that goes away with rest

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness

• Joint or bone problems

If you feel chest pain that does not go away with rest, call 911 right away.