Dear Dr. Kleeman: Since you are a Doctor, I don’t really need to get an OK from my own Doctor to do this program, right?

There is an important difference between being a doctor and being your doctor. As a doctor I have designed this program around sound medical facts and research. You know it has been demonstrated that exercise can be effective as part of the treatment for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetes, however, there may be situations where these conditions are out of control and could put you at risk if you over exert yourself. Your own doctor knows the important facts about your health, the medications you take, any surgery you may have had or injuries incurred, all of which may affect what type of exercise program is best for you. If you have a heart condition, you may need some special tests before you get the go-ahead to begin this type of exercise program. You may need to have your blood pressure monitored or check your blood sugar regularly. If you have lung disease you may have some restrictions on how much exertion you can tolerate. Talk to your doctor about this program and maybe give him a copy of the exercises so he or she can advise you appropriately. You will find a prescription with a list of the exercises on our website www.thedoctorsworkout.com.

Remember, if you have questions concerning exercise, health, or life in general, the doctor is in. Just email me at housecalls@thedoctorsworkout.com and I will try to add them to house calls. And as always stay happy, stay healthy, and stay fit.