Australian scientists have developed an exercise pill

Australian scientists have developed an exercise pill they say tricks the body into responding as though it's been to the gym.

Overweight Woman lying by exercise ball stretching arm and leg upwards Source: AAP

It sounds too good to be true but Deakin University researchers in Melbourne say it could soon help save the lives of obese people with heart disease and diabetes.

Researchers say initial trials have produced stunning results in a bunch of fat mice that had heart problems because of their weight.

It apparently works by keeping certain genes - which allow for increased fat burning during exercise - switched on all the time.