Health Evaluation

Before starting an exercise program, you should have a health evaluation, especially if you:

1. Are over 35 years old
2. Have had type 2 diabetes for more than 10 years or type 1 diabetes for more than 15 years
3. Have diabetes-related eye or kidney problems (retinopathy or nephropathy)
4. Have poor circulation in your legs
5. Have neuropathy preventing an increase in heart rate with exercise
6. Have high blood pressure
7. Smoke

Your doctor can help you determine whether you have any conditions that would limit the way you exercise. If you have eye problems, don't do any jumping or jarring exercise, or lift heavy weights.

If you have lost feeling in your feet, be careful not to injure them-swimming may be preferable to jogging. An exercise tolerance test is important if you have heart disease.