Are functional fitness exercises for everyone?

If you haven't exercised for some time or if you have health problems, it's a good idea to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program. Similarly, if you're pregnant, check with your doctor. Moderate activity is generally safe during pregnancy if you're healthy, but your doctor can assess what's best for you.

It's also a good idea to start with body weight exercises. As you become more fit and ready for more of a challenge, you can add more resistance such as weights or resistance bands. But be careful not to add too much resistance to exercises that require high impact, as this places joints and soft tissues at more risk if these exercises aren't performed optimally. Performing movements in the water is a low impact way of achieving functional exercise.