(HealthDay News) -- There's no surefire way to stay young, but plenty of regular exercise may be the closest way.

Nonetheless, you can over-exercise or work out incorrectly, increasing your chances of injury.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions for proper exercise:

• Take a few minutes to warm up with some light cardio exercise (walking or jogging) and gentle stretching before you begin your workout.
• Always cool down after you're finished exercising.
• Exercise consistently in a balanced way, instead of doing too much too infrequently.
• Take lessons before you try a new exercise or sport, and make sure you have the proper equipment that fits well.
• Pay attention to your body's warning signs, and adjust your workout accordingly. Don't just exercise "through the pain."
• Don't increase your workout by more than 10 percent each week.