Aerobics

Aerobics is a form of exercise, typically performed to music, often in a group setting with a leader, although it can be practiced solo and without musical accompaniment. Aerobics comprises stretching, strength training, and aerobic exercise components in order to improve all elements of fitness (flexibility, muscle strength, and cardio-vascular fitness).

Within each 'unit' (units being flexibility, strength training and aerobic workout), practitioners go through variable routines comprising a number of different exercises. Proponents of aerobics cite staving off boredom and working out the whole body as two of the advantages of aerobics over other types of exercise. The reputedly higher safety factor inherent in a fitness routine led and overseen by a trained professional is another.

Formal aerobics 'classes' led by aerobics instructors are often divided into beginner, intermediate and advanced classes, with different routines and fitness goals for each, and many aerobics classes allow participants to modify their level of participation in line with their fitness level.

Aerobics is a form of exercise that is typically associated with weight loss regimes. Properly executed, it improves fitness, but doesn't contribute measurably to specialised athletic training. More women than men practice aerobics. Although aerobics is typically practiced to music, it is not to be confused with jazzercise or other dance-based workouts.

Types and styles

Group exercise aerobics can be divided into two major types: Freestyle Aerobics and Pre-choreographed Aerobics. In the eighties, aerobics fashion trends were over-sized off-shoulder sweaters, tights, leg warmers, headbands, crimped hair, and sports bras.

Aerobic and health

Research has been shown that aerobics is one of the healthiest forms of exercise. The literal meaning of aerobics is with oxygen i.e aerobics helps us to use oxygen more efficiently by conditioning the heart and lungs. This helps in the reduction of stress and weight control. Aerobic exercises have a wide range of benefits such as it encourages cardiovascular and muscular fitness and increases flexibility. Aerobics workouts are great for building a stronger heart and leaner body, lowering cholesterol and improving sleep patterns.

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