Exercise Overrated?

Nobody can deny the fact that our society is obsessed with exercise; it's impossible to turn on the tv or flip through magazines without seeing an advertisement for one fitness program or another. It seems like whatever ailment you have, exercise is always portrayed as a viable cure. However, according to this article in the New York Times, exercise has pretty much been oversold. While exercise is good for you and can reduce the risks of developing certain diseases, it has not been shown to reduce blood pressure or have much of an effect on cholesterol levels, which is pretty surprising. Also, although it is often said to be able to prevent osteoporosis, this has not been proven through research; is has only been shown that people who have osteoporosis and exercise are less likely to fall and suffer a broken bone because exercise helps to maintain balance. However, this doesn't mean that couch potatoes don't have to worry about exercising anymore; it's still necessary to maintain good health.