Although specific, scientifically based algorithms for pre-exercise screening
have not been delineated, Box 1 itemizes conditions that warrant further diagnosis
and treatment before beginning exercise. They include but are not limited to
undiagnosed murmurs, bruits, resting tachycardia or bradycardia, enlarged aorta,
undiagnosed hernia, and delirium. These all warrant further evaluation, and blood
pressure above 200/110 should be treated before initiating exercise. Despite these
necessary precautions, the prescribing physician must not lose sight of the
benefits of strength training for elderly patients described earlier. When the initial
prescription is low intensity, increases are introduced slowly and progress monitored
closely