Regular exercise can slow down aging and reduce around two dozen physical and mental health conditions, according to a new research review.

A paper entitled "What men should know about the impact of physical activity on their health", published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice, summarised the key findings of 40 studies published between 2006 and 2010.

People who take regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing physical and mental health conditions including certain cancers, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, depression, obesity, erectile dysfunction and dementia - as well as slowing down how quickly their body deteriorates with age.

In fact, the reviews says that apart from not smoking, being physically active is the most powerful lifestyle choice any individual can make to improve their health.

Physiotherapist and lecturer Leslie Alford from the University of East Anglia, said: "The literature reviewed shows that how long people live and how healthy they are depends on a complex mix of factors, including their lifestyle, where they live and even luck.

"Individuals have an element of control over some of these factors, including obesity, diet, smoking and physical activity. Although the focus of my study was on men's health, the messages on physical activity are relevant to both sexes and all age groups."