Hey, *hand waving in air* Let me answer this question... *smile*
I am an Occupational Therapist, So here is a Professional view.
MD'ing is a form of exercise. It is called "leisure activity'. It is not done with the INTENT to exercise, but health benefits are a bonus to the activity.
MD'ing requires slow, deliberate movement. Not all exercise is fast and heavy. Look at Ti' Chi'. All the movements are slow, deliberate, and relaxing.
Leisure activity is just as important as any other form of exercise. From my theraputic point of view, leisure activity is THEE most important because it relieves stress. Go to the gym, tennis courts, jog down the road alll day long and have a heart attack just the same. OR... participate in an activity that makes your heart leap with joy at the thought of participating and we have decreased fatigue, hypertension, high blood pressure...etc, etc....
The answer is

? Yes, it is exercise, it is good for us, it is worth the time, money, and soreness for what it does for our spirits.
I would continue to do this EVEN if it gave me pimples. LMAO!!!!!
ENJOY IT!!!!
HH All,
Amy