Improving the health of adults over 50, through physical activity
First Step To Active Health Safety Reminder
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WHEN TO CONTACT YOUR PHYSICIAN

If you experience any symptoms of weakness, unsteadiness, light-headedness or dizziness, chest pain or pressure, nausea, or shortness of breath. Mild soreness after exercise may be experienced after beginning a new exercise. Contact your physician if the soreness does not improve after 2-3 days.

Safety Reminders
  • SEE YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER FIRST.
  • Don't exercise without the permission of your physician.
  • Don't exercise if you have an unstable medical condition, healing injury, or uncontrolled disease.
  • Contact your doctor if you experience chest pain or pressure, trouble breathing or shortness of breath, light-headedness or dizziness, or nausea.
  • Don't perform activities that cause sharp pain or aggravate a medical condition.
  • Soreness is to be expected in the muscles with any new exercise program. Use soreness as a guide for intensity. If you are very sore the day after exercising, exercise at a lower intensity next time. If the pain persists more than 2 days, contact your doctor.
  • Joint pain should be avoided. The saying "no pain, no gain" is not true for older adults.
  • Remember to breathe properly. Never hold your breath while straining, particularly if you have high blood pressure. Generally, exhale during muscle exertion, and inhale during relaxation.