Before resuming exercise after a long period of inactivity, it is essential to undergo a comprehensive health check-up (including a blood pressure measurement and potentially an electrocardiogram), even if you feel in peak condition, in order to prevent any silent cardiac or joint risks.

noli's read

Ensuring one is in good physical condition before exerting the body is a prudent approach. According to the guidelines of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM, expert opinion), a prior health check-up is strongly recommended for sedentary individuals presenting with specific risk factors or symptoms before starting an intense activity program. However, the same ACSM guidelines specify that a routine medical green light is not necessary for asymptomatic individuals simply wishing to resume moderate activity, in order to avoid creating an unnecessary barrier to physical exercise. Regarding the routine use of an electrocardiogram (ECG) for healthy adolescents or adults, the European Society of Cardiology (ESC, expert consensus) recommends it for competition, but its widespread use in asymptomatic amateur athletes remains debated in science due to the risk of false positives. Thus, a check-up is essential in the presence of warning signs, but should not hinder a gentle and gradual resumption.

the sources

1. 1Corrado D, Pelliccia A, Bjørnstad HH, et al. (ESC) 2005
2. 2Maron BJ, Friedman RA, Kligfield P, et al. (AHA/ACC) 2014