According to the Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health, those who exercise regularly reduce the risk of:

• premature death
• cardiovascular disease
• coronary heart disease
• high blood pressure
• colon cancer
• non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
• obesity
• osteoathritis

The Surgeon General's report also reports an association between regular exercise and:

• improved mood
• decreased anxiety
• relief from symptoms of depression
• an enhanced sense of well-being

• The Exercise Movement
• What is regular exercise?
• What are the benefits of regular exercise?
• Why do people join health and sportsclubs?
• How do I shop for a club?
• How do I choose the right club for me?
• What should I know before I sign the membership agreement?
• IHRSA Membership Eligibility Standards