The benefits of exercise

Over the years, many studies have documented the profound beneficial effects of regular exercise. For instance, physically active individuals have been found to have:
* Lower rates of heart disease (JAMA, 1995; 273: 1093-8; N Engl J Med, 1999; 341: 650-8)
* Less depression and anxiety (J Psychosom Res, 1989; 33: 537-47; Arch Intern Med, 1999; 159: 2349-56)
* Better blood pressure control (J Clin Epidemiol, 1992; 45: 439-47)
* Better glucose control (JAMA, 1999; 282: 1433-9)
* Reduced joint swelling in those with arthritis (JAMA, 1997; 277: 25-31)
* Lower risk of colon cancer (J Natl Cancer Inst, 1997; 89: 948-55; Ann Intern Med, 1995; 122: 327-34) and diverticular disease (Gut, 1995; 36: 276-82) as well as of other cancers
* Fewer gallstones (N Engl J Med, 1999; 341: 777-84)
* Reduced risk of bone fracture (BMJ, 1997; 315: 1065-9)
* Better quality of sleep (JAMA, 1997; 277: 32-7).