Exercise helps reduce the risk of developing a variety of diseases in later life, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, back pain, osteoporosis and obesity. Research has shown that exercising helps to improve mood and relieve stress by releasing 'happy' hormones called endorphins.

As if that wasn't incentive enough, a recent scientific study has shown that students who take part in more vigorous physical activities at school, such as football and skateboarding, scored 10 per cent more in core subjects such as maths, science and English than their less active classmates.

The effect was shown in students who participated in a sport at least three times a week.