Before you exercise:

While there is no way to be absolutely sure one is at no risk to begin an exercise program, the PAR-Q Questionnaire has been developed to prevent unnecessary medical examinations while at the same time help people determine if they are an "apparently healthy individual." If you answer the PAR-Q accurately, and you answer "no" to all the questions, you can be reasonably assured that beginning an exercise program is appropriate (Corbin and Lindsay, 1997.) We recommend that everyone take the PAR-Q Questionnaire before they begin an exercise program and follow the recommended suggestions that accompany the results.

When beginning a cardiovascular exercise program, it is also recommended that the concept of "target heart rates" be understood. Click on the following to determine your target heart rate and learn more about target heart rates.

The Department of Kinesiology and Health at Georgia State University has developed an excellent, research-based web page that contains valuable exercise and fitness information. Before beginning a strength training program, we recommend that that you understand the the principles and guidelines contained on their Strength Training Main Page.

For information about healthy weight take a look at the Surgeon General's Healthy Weight page.