It is known that exercise can be used effectively to fight depression and has far fewer negative side effects than antidepressants. A survey in 2005 reported that 85% of people with mental health issues found exercise to be helpful in their treatment. Additionally, there is a number of co-incidental benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, some cancers, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and obesity. — The Department of Health