This publication presents general guidelines for exercise prescription that have an anatomical basis but also consider the exerciser's ability to do the exercise correctly. It reviews various common questionable exercises, explaining how some exercises, especially those designed for flexibility and muscle fitness, can cause harm. Safer alternatives are provided. Section 1 discusses parameters of evaluation. Section 2 describes the spine. Section 3 explains spinal movements, focusing on the neck (cervical) area, the trunk area, and the pelvic area. It examines exercise concerns related to cervical spine range of motion; hip-joint flexion range of motion; hip-joint/trunk (extension strength); trunk/hip-joint (flexion strength); and other nuances of abdominal strength. Section 4 discusses the knee, noting exercise concerns and describing the standing quadricep/hip-flexor stretch, the hurdler stretch, knee hyperflexion, and high impact exercises. Section 5 summarizes the issue, re-emphasizing the fact that certain exercises that are appropriate for some people may be totally inappropriate for others. The quality of the exerciser's movements is a critical variable when evaluating exercises for inclusion in a conditioning program. Criteria to consider when judging an exercise or an exerciser are included. Several important definitions are also provided. (Contains 41 references.) (SM)