The word aerobic literally means “with oxygen” or “in the presence of oxygen”. Aerobic activity trains the heart, lungs and cardiovascular system to process and deliver oxygen more quickly and efficiently to every part of the body. Aerobics is a form of physical exercise that combines rhythmic aerobic exercise with stretching and strength training routines with the goal of improving all elements of fitness. As the heart muscle becomes stronger and more efficient, a larger amount of blood can be pumped with each heartbeat. As a result, a fit individual can work longer, more vigorously and achieve a quicker recovery at the end of the aerobic session.
It is usually performed to music and may be practiced in a group setting led by an instructor, although it can be done solo and without musical accompaniment. There are many factors that should be kept in mind before starting any aerobic exercise. The experts suggest that the aerobic exercise can be carried out 3-5 times per week and an exercise session of 20-60 minutes is considered optimal. Experts believe that achieving 60-90% of age-specific maximal heart rate should be the target of an aerobics session.
Be it man, woman or child - exercising is beneficial for everyone. In aerobics, one uses large muscle groups repetitively for a sustained amount of time. The best part about aerobics is that you will enjoy doing it for an extended period of time. There are numerous types of aerobics which you can indulge in. Some of the most popular types of aerobics exercises are aerobic dance, bicycling, rowing machine, in-line skating, fitness walking, jumping rope, running, stair climbing and swimming. A sudden and jerky movements of the muscles may lead to injury. Therefore a proper warm-up helps your body prepare itself for exercise and reduces the chance of injury. Hence one should practice aerobics on regular basis as it keeps a person fit.