Aerobic or cardiovascular exercise is any physical exercise, performed at reasonable but increasing intensity, over a period of time. "Aerobic" means "with oxygen". Cardiovascular exercise sometimes referred to as cardio respiratory exercise or aerobic exercise has a number of health benefits when done regularly. Aerobic exercise will strengthen your heart and lungs and will improve blood flow.
Aerobic exercise includes the training of the muscles to draw oxygen from the blood as well as fats and glucose with the goal of increasing cardiovascular stamina. Aerobics is used to improve overall fitness, burn more calories, tone and shape, and loss weight. The benefits of aerobic exercise are attained by increasing your heart rate and breathing for extended periods of time. During aerobic activity the body produces more energy and delivers more oxygen to your muscles.
There are numerous aerobic exercise routines, so the first priority is to find a program that works for you. Simple examples of this kind of exercise are walking, rowing, dancing, cycling, and swimming. Typically a duration of 15 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise activity is needed with a frequency of 3 to 5 days a week.
Aerobic exercise is the cornerstone of a healthy active life. Some people believe that aerobic exercise will tone and firm muscles, but in reality accomplishes only minor toning and firming. Weight training is required for the toning and firming of the muscles. A balanced approach is best where aerobic exercise is used to burn fat and deliver oxygen to the tissue, and weight training is used to promote lean body mass and burn more calories around the clock.
Beyond just the weight loss and increased metabolism, aerobic exercise has other benefits. It can help if you are having trouble sleeping. It can also improve your mood if done on a regular basis. Aerobic exercise is a super way to reduce stress and anxiety. Finally it gives you the energy needed to complete normal activities easily.
Scientists have found that aerobic exercise not only stops the brain shrinkage that usually starts around age 40s, specifically in the parts of the brain responsible for memory and higher cognition, but will actually reverse this shrinkage. A different study found that three hours a week of aerobic exercise provided noticeably cognitive benefits.
Bottom line, a healthy lifestyle includes aerobic exercise and when done regularly will have a whole list of benefits. What is keeping you from getting a routine started? Good luck and good health!
