Aerobic (also called cardiovascular exercise) exercise requires continuous, smooth, rhythmic movements that strengthen your heart and lungs. These types of movements work large muscle groups and force your body to breathe more deeply, increasing the transport of oxygen-rich blood from the lungs to the muscles. This, in turn, pushes your body to burn more calories from fat.
AEROBIC EXERCISES:
Participating in aerobic exercises does not have to be a chore. It can be very enjoyable because there are so many choices available. Some examples of easy aerobic exercises are:
*Walking - The easiest exercise that will benefit anyone regardless of his or her fitness level. It is simple, effective, and can be done inside or outside. It can burn as many calories as jogging if done briskly, but does not have the risk for injury that jogging does.
*Swimming
*Bicycling (outside or inside-stationary bike)
*Ice, Roller or In-line skating
*Cross-country skiing
*Running or Jogging
*Water aerobics
*Stair-climbing
*Elliptical training
*Rowing
The fundamental health benefits of participating in a daily aerobic exercise program are numerous. One of the primary benefits of regular exercise is how it can help reduce your risk for many diseases and conditions.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF AEROBIC EXERCISE:
*HEART DISEASE: The number one benefit of a regular exercise regimen is reducing your risk of heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States.
*STROKE: Exercise reduces your chances of having a stroke by decreasing the build-up of plaque in your arteries. Plaque build-up in blood vessels is the cause of strokes.
*CANCER: Exercise reduces your risk of developing certain types of cancer such as prostate, colon, and breast.
*HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: If you have high blood pressure, it can be lowered naturally by regular exercise.
*DIABETES: Aerobic exercise helps control your weight, decreasing your chances of being overweight, which in turn reduces your chances of developing diabetes.
*HIGH CHOLESTEROL: Regular aerobic exercise lowers your bad cholesterol and raises your good cholesterol.
*OSTEOPOROSIS: Weight-bearing aerobic exercises, like walking, can reduce your risk of osteoporosis and its complications by building strong bones.
*OSTEOARTHRITIS: Low-impact aerobic exercises like swimming, bicycling, and water aerobics, can keep you fit without placing excessive strain on your joints. This contributes to healthy joints and reduces your risk of osteoarthritis.
*FIBROMYALGIA: Aerobic exercise encourages the growth of capillaries in your muscles. This enables your body to more efficiently transport oxygen to your muscles and remove waste products.
*DEPRESSION: When you exercise, your brain releases a chemical called endorphins, easing the tension associated with anxiety, and the despondency of depression.
*INCREASE YOUR STAMINA: Aerobic exercise may cause you to feel tired during and immediately following the activity. However, the lasting effects will be increased stamina and reduction of fatigue.
*EXTEND YOUR LIFE: The many benefits of following a regular aerobic exercise regimen to your health and well-being will contribute to a longer, healthier lifespan.
Regardless of your age, fitness level, or weight, you should begin an aerobic exercise program today. The benefits for you and your health far exceed any hesitations you may have or excuses you may use.
