Final answer:
Tony and Tricia should begin their triathlon training by visiting their doctor to get a physical and assess their health to ensure they are capable of high-intensity exercise and to prevent potential health issues during training.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tony and Tricia, both 43 years old and in relatively good health, are seeking to start a vigorous exercise routine to train for a triathlon. Considering their age and the intensity of the activity they wish to pursue, the first step they should take is quite critical for ensuring they embark on this journey safely. Health experts and guidelines suggest that adults participating in new or strenuous physical activities, such as preparing for a triathlon, should first consult with a healthcare provider.
Before Tony and Tricia start their vigorous exercise routine, they should visit their doctor to get a physical and assess their health. This will help ensure they are physically able to handle the stress of intense exercise and acknowledge any underlying health issues that might need to be managed or monitored during their training. Other options such as racing each other, planning a caloric menu, or even trying a shorter triathlon are secondary, and shouldn’t precede the essential health assessment by a professional.
While factors like cardiovascular fitness and lifestyle changes play a significant role in enhancing quality of life and preventing age-related decline, the importance of individual health assessment cannot be overstated. Adopting healthy exercise habits and routines is vital, but it must be done in a safe manner, considering personal health conditions, which can only be ascertained through a thorough medical check-up.
Hence, the correct option for Tony and Tricia as they prepare for their triathlon training is indeed to visit their doctor to get a physical and assess their health before they start.