Exercise Advice.

People who exercise regularly have a much lower risk of premature death through heart attack.  This is because exercise helps to regulate blood pressure and improve circulation, reducing the risk of blood clots (thrombosis).

Exercise is also believed to help depression and provide natural pain relief.  It does this by triggering the release of endorphins, anti-stress hormones that block pain signals from the brain, and serotonin, a chemical compound that affects mood, emotion, sleep and appetite.

Gentle exercise can benefit some medical conditions by increasing suppleness and mobility.  Those who have existing conditions that cause swelling and inflammation of the joints such as arthritis may have some exercise incorporated into their treatment.

There is always a risk of injury from exercise, particularly from strenuous activity that puts excessive pressure on the joints and muscles.  If you haven't already been exercising regularly and have any of the following characteristics, you should check with your doctor for a fitness evaluation if you: 

are over 35 and smoke,
have diabetes or are at known risk for heart disease,
are over 40 and inactive,
have high blood pressure,
have chest pains or any severe discomfort when you exercise,
have high cholesterol, or
have difficulty breathing during mild exertion such as daily-living activities.

The risk of injury can be greatly reduced by completing warm-up stretches prior to exercise.

There are times when it may not be beneficial to exercise. 

Exercise should be avoided if: