The NHS is testing a scheme where those about to undergo chemotherapy or a major operation are encouraged to get ripped first - if they are able - with a trial offering free prescription exercise sessions within days of being diagnosed.

Axar.az reports citing SkyNews that the hypothesis being tested here is that fit people recuperate quicker and get back on their feet sooner; better for their health and freeing up hospital mattresses to be flipped over for the next patient.

500 people in Manchester have already been enrolled, as if being told you've got a form of cancer isn't bad enough, with NHS bosses expecting as many as 2,000 potential patients to be given the pretreatment fitness options over coming years.

Nutritional tips and mental health assistance are also on offer, should you be fat because of reasons deeper than a taste for chocolate Hobnobs and there is a nice takeaway within walking distance.

NHS chief exec Simon Stevens said: "Cancer treatments now work better than ever, but they can really take a toll on your body. So there's increasing evidence that it's really worth trying to get match fit ahead of chemo or major surgery. In effect, you are 'priming' your own recovery before your treatment even begins."