A humble level of physical fitness may help avoid suffering a stroke. Studies show that men and women over 40 who can climb stairs, carry groceries, kneel, bend and lift may be less likely to suffer a stroke than those who don't do anything. If you can't do these things then save and buy the inexpensive manual treadmill and try to walk at least an hour a day.
reference: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/12/10/health/webmd/main3603773.shtml