Therapies for specific illnesses or symptoms include many medications. The ultimate decision to take these medications rests with the patient relying on a healthcare professional's advice. Medications carry with them benefits, risks, and the potential for medical errors. Patient vigilance is necessary to eliminate medical errors that could result in serious or fatal consequences. Exercise is an alternative or adjunct to medication. No medication is as versatile and has as many widespread benefits as a well-designed exercise program done with physician supervision. The authors list the many symptoms and illnesses that benefit from exercise, detailing the research and the reasons why these benefits occur. A well designed, physician supervised and faithfully executed exercise program may well obviate the need for medication and will provide life-long benefits.