The word aerobic literally means “with oxygen” or “in the presence of oxygen.” Aerobic exercise is any activity that uses large muscle groups, can be maintained continuously for a long time and is rhythmic in nature. Aerobic exercises utilize oxygen as the main fuel to maintain the activity for relatively long periods.
In general, aerobic exercises are those activities that require large muscle work, elevate the heart rate between 60 percent and 80 percent of maximum heart rate is continuing in nature and are 15 to 60 minutes in duration. Aerobically fit individual can work longer, more vigorously and achieve a rapid recovery at the end of the aerobic session.
Aerobic exercises fall into two categories:
Low to moderate impact aerobics – like walking, swimming, stair climbing, step aerobics classes of light-water rowing and skiing. Nearly anyone in reasonable health can engage in some low to moderate impact exercise. Walking at a good pace burns more calories than running the same distance because it takes more time to run away on foot and that it poses less risk of injury to muscles and bones.
High-impact aerobics – Activities that belong to this group include running, dance exercise, tennis, racquetball and squash. High-impact aerobics should be performed on alternate days. People who are overweight, elderly, or condition of an injury or other medical problem should do, even less frequently and only with the permission of your doctor.
The key to effective weight loss is through the use of a healthy exercise program which is conducted on a regular basis, while following a healthy diet and nutritional plan. Aerobic exercise is good for weight loss because they consumed more calories than other activities and help increase your metabolic rate.
