subject: Why You Need To Know Your Health History [print this page] Have you ever joined a gym? If you have ever joined a gym than you know the process. Right after they get your check, they ask you to fill out that "wonderful" health survey. The answers to these questions are very important; they give a background look in to your eating habits, exercising habits, and any medical conditions that you may have. Some of the generic questions might include: Do you experience any joint problems? Do you have a high stress level? Are you currently taking prescriptions of any sort?
If you don't belong to a gym you still need to ask yourself these questions. They will be a good indicator of your risk of heart disease:
1) Do you engage in exercise of any sort? How often?
2) Do you have a history of heart disease in your family?
3) Do you have high blood sugar or diabetes?
4) Is there a history of high blood pressure with you or your family?
5) Has anyone in your family developed any form of heart disease?
6) Do you smoke? Have you tried to quit in the last two years?
7) Have you ever been diagnosed with high cholesterol?
If you answered "yes" to at least one of these questions and you are over 35, you need to consult a doctor before beginning any sort of exercise program. A doctor is the only person that can accurately assess whether you are putting yourself in danger by exercising. If you answered "yes" to more than one of these questions, definitely go see a doctor.
If you are looking to join a gym sometimes they will ask you to seek the advice of a physician before they let you workout. Don't get upset! This means that your gym is on the ball and they know what they are doing. Some health clubs just want your money and really don't care about your overall well being. If this is the case, you need to be able to determine whether you need to see a doctor or not.
After filling out your questionnaire, your tester should run through the answers with you. All this will do is help to clarify your answers. For example, if you answered yes to the smoking question, he may ask you how often. You will need to respond honestly, this is for your benefit. Also, be sure not to make yourself look better than you really are. If you don't run five miles a day, don't say you do!
If you follow these guidelines you should be in good shape. Just remember to be honest when evaluating your health history.
