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What is Aerobic Exercise?

So, what is aerobic exercise exactly? Find the answer to this question and more here in our latest blog post. Read now!

Published: 11/18/19

What is Aerobic Exercise?

Strength training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), plyometrics, anaerobic exercise, aerobic exercise—oh my. All of the terms used in the fitness world can be a lot to handle, let alone wholly understand. So, we want to tackle each of these subjects bit by bit here on the blog. Today, we are diving into aerobic exercise. What is it, and should you be adding it to your gym routine?

What Is Aerobic Exercise?

Aerobic means “with oxygen”. This sort of exercise promotes the flow of oxygen throughout your body, which is a very good thing. Improving the flow of oxygen also improves circulation throughout the body. In general, you need to be exerting a medium level of energy for an extended period to enjoy the health benefits of aerobic exercise. Examples of aerobic activity include jogging, lifting weights, group exercise classes like Zumba, and so much more. 

How Long Should Aerobic Exercise Last?

The American Heart Association suggests completing regular aerobic exercise 5-7 times a week for at least 30 minutes a day. Don’t worry—that doesn’t mean you need to be exercising in the gym seven days a week or overworking yourself. In fact, please don’t. Here is info on the importance of rest days. These 30 minutes could consist of long walks, hikes, a day at the beach, and can even be broken up throughout the day. Like, 10 minutes in the morning, 10 minutes in the afternoon, and 10 minutes at night—not so bad, right?

Examples of Aerobic Exercise

Aerobic and cardio workouts are basically the same (with a minor caveat). They both aim to get oxygen moving throughout your body with a higher intake and raise your heart rate. Examples include jogging, running, jumping rope, fitness classes like Zumba, and much more. However, you can also complete an anaerobic cardio workout (HIIT training, sprints, etc.). So, this is where the two differ. Cardio workouts can swap from aerobic to anaerobic based on the level of exertion in the exercise.

Benefits of Aerobic Fitness

It is essential to have a healthy mix of aerobic and anaerobic exercise in your routine. You will reap the benefits of this routine like improving your cardiovascular health (heart health), maintaining or regulating your weight, improving memory, building strength, improving your mood, reducing the risk of osteoporosis, and so much more. 

Where To Start Aerobic Exercise

We like to think starting with a professional is the best place when possible. So, think about what sort of workout you want to complete. Is it cardio and strength, just cardio, a bit of cardio kickboxing, etc? Then choose a group exercise class or Team Training session to join in on. We love working out in a group setting for a few reasons. First, there is a certified fitness professional in each class or session to guide you along the way. They will be able to correct your form and find ways to make the workouts a little more difficult or customize them to help you avoid injury. They are also pretty fantastic motivators to help you go that extra mile—sometimes literally. (We’re looking at you, Team Training Coaches!) The other reason we love group exercise is that you will be able to build a community. People to hold you accountable, to relate with, and to motivate you to come to the gym on those days where you simply don’t want to. We’ve all been there! 

What Equipment is Needed?

One of the beauties of aerobic exercise is that it can be done anywhere at any time. You can complete an aerobic workout in your hotel room, on the pavement, in the water, on a bike, or, of course, in the gym. And all that you need for equipment is your bodyweight. If you want something more, though, you can use weights, bands, suspension ropes, and the like for aerobic workout equipment. The limit is up to your imagination and what you are capable of achieving today. Some days you may want to pick up the kettlebell for your aerobic workout, and others, your body may be just the thing you need. 

So, if you’re going to start your aerobic exercise routine, stop by a Chuze Fitness near you. Our team will be happy to give you a tour so that you can plan out the perfect aerobic training workout.

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