You’ve made a decision to “get with the program” and not just increase your physical activity by walking a little further from your office parking lot. You are beginning a formal exercise program that may work up a sweat 3-4 times a week or more. Should you be checking with a doctor before you start?

I reviewed the guidelines provided by the Mayo clinic to see who needs a doctor’s O.K. and who doesn’t. Here’s what I learned. Talk with your doctor before you start an exercise program if:

-You are a woman more than 50 years of age.

-You’ve had a heart attack.

-You have a family history of heart disease before age 55.

-You have heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease.

-You feel pain in your chest, joints, or muscles during physical activity.

-You have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis or asthma.

-You’ve had joint replacement surgery.

-You smoke.

-You’re overweight or obese.

-You take medication to manage a chronic condition.

-You have an untreated joint or muscle injury, or persistent symptoms after a joint or muscle injury.

-You’re pregnant.

-You’re unsure of your health status.

Just about anyone can benefit from some form of exercise at any age! If this list includes you, don’t use that as an excuse to not start. Visit your doctor and get approval for an exercise plan that will suit your situation. Then get started! It’s never too late.