Regular exercise using a rowing machine is one way for people to boost their sense of wellbeing, it has been claimed.

In addition to maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle, Brits have been urged to keep exercising in the winter months, when the condition seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can hamper many people's lives, according to SAD.org.

A spokesperson for the voluntary organisation, which is dedicated to helping people to combat the problem, was commenting following calls from FitFarms, which suggested that women maintain their fitness to stave off SAD.

"Continued exercise does benefit people suffering from SAD. Continued exercise gives people a feeling of wellbeing and achievement that can help to combat the condition," added the spokesperson.

NHS Direct advises that SAD can last through to the springtime, when most people's symptoms will disappear.

Around one in 50 people in the UK are thought to suffer from the condition, which affects twice as many women as men and is most common in those aged between 18 and 30 years old.