No combination of medications available today can replicate the benefits associated with consistent physical activity. That's why the American College of Sports Medicine developed an initiative called "Exercise is Medicine," an effort to ingrain a fitness philosophy into the health care system and communities. Upstate exercise physiologist Carol Sames, PhD, shares research that proves the medical benefits of exercise, along with methods health care providers are using to inspire their patients to be active. Sames is the director of Upstate's Vitality Fitness Program and also an associate professor of physical therapy education. Click here for a detailed look at current exercise guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.