The human body is adapted for regular, vigorous exercise, but in today's push button, microchip, automated world it all too often does not get it. Exercise helps to keep bones, joints and muscles young. It can reduce the chances of heart attack, and increase the chances of survival if you suffer one. It helps slimming by burning up the energy in food, and works off the tensions of everyday living. It can help to keep you in a healthy state of mind and cut down anxiety and depression. Above all, it promotes fitness.

Do's and Don'ts about exercise.

• Do consult your doctor before starting an exercise program if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, dizzy spells, blackouts, diabetes, persistent back trouble, arthritis, are convalescing, or are worried about the effect of exercise on some other aspect of your health.
• Do start gently and build up your efforts gradually over about six weeks. Stay comfortably within your limits.
• Do rest immediately if you feel pain or discomfort.
• Don't make the mistake of thinking that exercise must hurt to do you good.
• Don't take exercise if you feel physically tired---you are more likely to pull a muscle or sprain a joint.
• Don't take vigorous exercise within two hours of a heavy meal---you risk indigestion or abdominal cramps.
• Don't exercise if you have a heavy cold, feel ill, or are at all feverish.