Recently, I visited with a friend and physical therapy colleague. As we were catching up, the topic turned to work. She was recounting how some of her clients wanted to start running or return to running after an injury. She told me that she tells many of them that they “don’t have the body to be a runner” and should choose another sport. My first response was that she was pretty direct and quick to squash a client’s goals but then I thought she may have a valid point. And, she may be saving them from further injury. She has some track and runner’s qualification to say what she said. She was an accomplished hurdler, her husband is a retired track coach and they are still in the track and field business. So, she has been around runners most of her life.

When individuals want to start an exercise program, it is difficult to match the person to an activity especially if there is a complicated medical history. However, it is not impossible. Considerations include training for cardiovascular, strength, flexibility and balance within a safe range. Parameters of time and frequency need to be established. And, your current fitness level needs to be established; not what you used to do “years ago”. For some individuals, that may mean starting to exercise while sitting in a chair. For others, it may mean walking 30 minutes, five days a week. Injuries are also a factor. For example, I swam competitively for many years and even after I stopped competing, I continued to swim for exercise. After two shoulder surgeries, I couldn’t swim at the intensity that I desired and had to search for something else to challenge me. I turned to cycling which is something I continue today. As you become more physically fit, your activity will progress and change. In fact, it is good that your exercises change so you have some variety in the program. I encourage folks to exercise in many different ways so that exercising doesn’t become stale and your body is constantly challenged.

So seek out exercise and if you are just starting to exercise, have a professional match your body and current fitness level with the appropriate activity to prevent injury. If you have been exercising regularly, try other activities to challenge yourself and body (within reason of course!). You may surprise yourself. Most of all, be safe and honor your body.