Why runners need to get a complete health check-up before starting

If you are planning to start a running program, it is important that you see your doctor for a complete health check-up. Screening prior to running is a simple and reassuring way to assess the current state of your body and to ensure that you are fit to run. Running is a highly intense workout that can be extremely beneficial for your body. Regular running can reduce your risk of long-term illnesses, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. It can also boost your mood and keep your weight under control. However, if you haven’t exercised in a long time or already have some chronic illness, the risks involved in running can easily outweigh its potential benefits.

When you start to participate in an intense activity, there is a slightly increased risk of a heart attack or cardiac complications. Sometimes, even leading to a serious cardiac event with the potential to kill a runner without any warning. However, that doesn’t mean you should give up on your favourite activity. The pre-exercise screening will identify medical conditions and check that the person doesn’t have an underlying heart condition that they may not be aware of. A complete checkup will provide you and your physician with important health information like weight, blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol, BMI giving a good idea about your heart condition. Based on your tests, your medical practitioner will advise you on simple lifestyle changes you can make to stabilise these key health markers and reduce your risk of cardiac complications in the future.

By undergoing a thorough health check, you can spot problems such as diabetes or orthopaedic limitations in the early stages when they are easier to treat. As you come to know about your health conditions, it gets easier for you to train accordingly and work towards achieving your fitness goals. The test is essential for men and women of all ages who are planning to start an intense running program. Those seeking a full body checkup can call us to book an appointment today. The Specialist Hospital offers a comprehensive health check package, which helps in the overall assessment of all the organs and systems of the body such as heart, lungs, kidneys and liver to assess the current state of your body and to ensure that you are fit to run.