Your decision to start an exercise program is a good one, but you may also have some questions and concerns. It’s best to address these with a medical professional or trainer before you begin training. In fact, you should schedule a physical assessment before starting any training routine. Read on to learn why.
Hidden Health Conditions
First, a physical assessment can alert you to any hidden health conditions that may affect your exercise choices. If you have a heart condition, for instance, you’ll need to adjust your training accordingly, but you must know about it beforehand. Some workouts may not be suitable for you. The same goes for other conditions, including high blood pressure, asthma, or arthritis. You’ll be safer in the long run and more confident that your exercise can improve your health rather than hinder it.
Possible Injuries
A physical assessment will also pinpoint possible injuries that exercise might make worse. If you already have muscle strains, torn ligaments, or weak joints, you need to know about these before you start training so that you don’t aggregate them and end up seriously injured. A medical professional or trainer can carefully evaluate any aches and pains you’re experience, determine their cause, and advise you on which types of exercises to pursue and which to avoid until you heal.
Exercise Options
In fact, a medical professional or trainer can provide plenty of information about the exercise options that are most suitable for you. While any exercise is typically better than none, some routines may work better for you than others. You may prefer a routine heavy on cardio training, for instance, but a professional might suggest building muscle through increased strength training. You might also receive helpful guidance on positions and moves that could be harmful to you in your current condition. Don’t hesitate to try suggested exercise options and avoid ones that your medical professional or trainer discourages. Your training will proceed more smoothly, and you’ll be happier with the results.
Helpful Advice
Finally, a professional assessment gives you the opportunity to ask questions and receive additional helpful advice before you start a training regimen. You might ask about the balance between cardio and strength training, for instance, or wonder about how many days a week you should exercise and for how long. A professional can answer these questions and offer advice about warm-ups and cool-downs, avoiding injury, proper nutrition, and more. Don’t hesitate to ask your questions and to follow advice.
Beneficial Training
You want your training program to be as beneficial as possible, so start out right with a professional assessment. You’ll pinpoint health conditions and possible injuries and receive plenty of exercise options and helpful advice. So schedule an appointment before you start working out.
