Abstract

Although considerable epidemiologic evidence suggests that regular physical activity may help to protect against and treat aging -related chronic diseases, including atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal injuries and cardiovascular events e.g., acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and cardiac arrest, associated with exercise, have been reported in both the medical literature (Cantwell & Fletcher, 1969) and the lay press. Accordingly, these risks must be considered when recommending the type and intensity of exercise for the general population and for individuals with previous musculoskeletal injury, orthopedic limitations and/or cardiopulmonary or metabolic disease, e.g., diabetes. The purpose of this chapter is to put in perspective the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular risks associated with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, especially when concomitant chronic diseases e.g., coronary artery disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, or superimposed environmental stressors are involved, so as to enable physicians and exercise professionals to more accurately assess the risk-to-benefit ratio of exercise in the clients/patients they counsel. Einleitung