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Ideally,
everyone who takes up running should check with a doctor that they are not going
to put themselves in danger.
For many
runners this is unnecessary, however, if you are concerned, here are some
guidelines formulated by the US National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute to
help you decide.
According
to these guidelines, anyone who conforms to one or more of the eight criteria
below should consult a doctor before beginning an exercise programme:
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You are over age 60 and not accustomed to vigorous exercise
-
You have a family history of premature coronary heart disease (under 55 years
of age);
-
You frequently have pains or pressure in the left or mid chest area, left
neck, shoulder or arm (as distinct from the "stitch") during or immediately
after exercise;
-
You often feel faint or have spells of severe dizziness, or you experience
extreme breathlessness after mild exertion;
-
Your doctor has said that your blood pressure is too high and is not under
control, or you do not know that it is normal;
-
Your doctor has said that you have heart trouble, that you have a heart
murmur, or that you have had a heart attack;
-
Your doctor has said that you have bone or joint problems, such as arthritis;
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You have a medical condition that might need special attention in an exercise
program (for example, insulin dependent diabetes).
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Use your common sense; and if you are in doubt, go to your doctor.
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