ACSM PUBLIC INFORMATION

Generating interest, awareness, knowledge...
A large part of ACSM's mission is devoted to public awareness and education about the positive aspects of physical activity for people of all ages, from all walks of life. Most people can and should exercise. However, there are individuals who should get their doctor's permission prior to beginning an exercise program. Anyone with an unstable medical condition will want to seek an exercise prescription from their doctor. Injury may also require an individual to wait for the healing to be complete prior to beginning exercise. If you have cardiac, pulmonary, or metabolic disease, you should begin your exercise in a medically supervised environment.

Start slowly - listen to your body and your doctor...
For moderate endurance exercise, simply walk a little further each time you exercise and gradually increase the pace of your walks as the weeks pass. For strength exercise, lift a weight that you usually lift but do it more times than normal. Before beginning an aggressive exercise program, you should see your doctor or an exercise professional for screening tests and program advice.

The biggest risk to exercise is not starting...
You should consider several factors when choosing an aerobic activity for your personal fitness program.

Impact
Some activities involve jumping or pounding that may be uncomfortable or can lead to injury. Swimming, cross country skiing, in-line skating, cycling, and rowing are easier on the joints.

Convenience
Some aerobic activities require expensive equipment, are seasonal, or are not readily available in certain locations.

Skill
Activities that require a lot of skill may discourage you. Try to avoid activities that do not fit with your skill base, and don't quit before you've developed the skills you need for the activity to become enjoyable.

Social factor
Exercising with a group can be fun and beneficial. Sometimes exercising with other people is such fun that you're more likely to continue your fitness program. You should always be able to catch your breath and speak comfortably while exercising. It is also normal to sense effort, and maybe even discomfort, but you should never sense pain. Learn to use a Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale.* Always remember to warm up slowly and to cool down gradually.

http://www.mercola.com/nutritionplan/exercise.htm