Most experts believe that you should slowly increase activity levels at the beginning of an exercise regimen.

A qualified healthcare provider should be consulted before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Use cautiously if pregnant, elderly, or have any longstanding medical conditions. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before starting a new exercise plan.

Avoid high-impact forms of exercise with osteoporosis, nerve injuries or if pregnant.

There is extensive scientific evidence suggesting that regular exercise offers major health benefits. According to the CDC, the failure to exercise regularly is a significant precursor to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. Exercising on a regular basis is one of the most inexpensive and easiest measures a person can take in order to reduce their risk and/or delay the onset of serious illnesses.

Current opinion finds regular exercise to boost energy, encourage healthy sleep patterns and help individuals maintain a regular weight. All major medical organizations recommend exercise as one of the most important ways to stay healthy and recover after illness.

The American Heart Association recommends exercise for at least thirty minutes of continuous activity for at least three times a week as a way to help keep blood pressure low, and the American Cancer Association recommends exercise to keep cancer at bay.

The type of exercise is not as important as a consistent exercise schedule. Most experts today agree that burning calories should not be the goal of exercise; rather, the achievement of overall physical fitness is the important factor in remaining health. Increasing levels of physical activity even slightly may significantly benefit a person's health.