It is always recommended for just about any common ailment but there is usually nothing to keep patients accountable. My doctor busts my balls if my blood pressure or resting heart rate is even a little higher than normal, he knows I hate needles so he tells me if I come back in three weeks and its hasn't improved I have to get a full blood workup done to make sure I'm healthy. Needless to say that motivates me to up my cardio if I have been slacking. One time I had gained 5 lbs since my last sports physical and first thing he says when he walks in the exam room is something like "I see you gained 5 pounds since I last saw you, maybe you should have scheduled an appointment next door at the weight loss clinic instead of a physical." He's a total shitlord but he really cares about his patients.