Medical clearance for vigorous exercise. Clinical evaluation and exercise testing.

The practitioner plays an important role in providing guidance for exercise. Physical activity is one component of a life-style aimed at enhancing the health of the individual. When entered into with appropriate understanding and with reasonable expectations and goals, exercise can also be a major source of enjoyment. The role of the practitioner is to guide the patient to an appropriate level and intensity of exercise carried out in a suitable setting. In identifying the health habits and risk factors of the patient seeking clearance for an exercise program, physicians can do more than simply address the exercise issue. They can seize the opportunity to take a broader look at the patient's entire cardiovascular status and guide the patient into a generally beneficial program of health enhancement.