When considering initiating traditional aerobics, the following population is LEAST likely to require a physician’s clearance or consultation:
Explanation
Answer: B - While it is always a good idea to consult a physician before beginning any type of exercise program, individuals (male or female) in good general health with no prior medical history are less likely to be at risk from exercise. Individuals at increased risk for medical complications, including pregnant women, older adults with osteoporosis, those at increased risk of falling, and those with chronic medical conditions must consult a physician to ensure that exercise will be safe for them. Also important to note is the fact that not all exercise programs are created equal and not all decisions about the “best” program are intuitive. It may be more appropriate for a relatively frail woman with osteoporosis to exercise in a “gravity-dominant” environment than in aquatic exercise, even though the aquatic environment is considered more “gentle”. The load bearing forces present during traditional land-based exercise may create greater bone density protection that exercises in water.
