Joint pain while exercising: worth bothering NHS Direct/GP?

[MrsBertMacklin]

I've just started exercising (very unfit and in sedentary job) and when doing jumping jacks, I get a really bad pain in my lower back and on the top of my knee.

Back pain is a spasm and is stopping me from fully extending my arms, knee pain is more of a shooting pain that kicks in when I land back on the ground, not as severe and I can work through it, but persists after the workout.

Can someone advise whether this is normal and it's safe for me to work through this, or should I be talking to NHS Direct/GP? Thanks.

[ilovepowerhoop]

I would do the lower impact option for jumping jacks and do one leg at a time rather than doing the jump itself.

[timidviper]

Agree you should stick to lower impact exercise until you are fitter. No point in going to GP, they cannot do anything other than tell you not to overdo things and take painkiller if you have done.

[MrsBertMacklin]

Thanks, I'll sort out a modified version of the high impact moves.

[digerd]

Landing from a jump must be done properly to avoid jarring ankles, knees and back. Knees must also be in line with your toes when you land to avoid twisting the tendons and ligaments. Jumping also requires high fitness level.
Inappropriate and risky for a beginner.

[Casserole]

I think you need to start at a lower level and work up to where you want to be. Starting too high you will just injure yourself and then not be able to exercise at all.