Exercise can't counteract the damage being done to your body while you continue to smoke. What exercise can do is help you kick the habit.

Now I say that if you run more than 15 miles a week, it's for something other than aerobic fitness. Once you pass 15 miles, you do not see much further improvement.

Aerobic dancing is already adjusting to injury problems and will probably phase out to some extent.

I don't criticize weight training - as long as it is not a substitute for aerobic training.

Far too many times over the next 12 to 15 years, it was brought to my attention that people who followed my exercise guidelines exactly but ignored their diet, their weight and their cigarette smoking had heart attacks at age 55.

So I've broadened the fitness concept to make it one of moderation and balance.

It's easier and more cost effective to maintain good health, than to regain it once it's lost.