Aerobics
Choose aerobics for a full-body workout
Aerobics have long been one of the best weight loss and weight control exercises out there, as they target important muscle groups while providing sustained calorie-burning power. In addition to building stamina and improving your respiratory and cardiovascular health, aerobics help strengthen your immune system, ward off diseases and chronic illnesses, and, ultimately, live a longer and healthier life.
There are many different aerobics variations you can participate in, depending on your fitness goals, endurance, personal preferences and relative level of fitness. Some of the most popular options include step aerobics, water aerobics, dance aerobics and walk aerobics.
Aerobics Variations to Enjoy
Here's the low-down on the most popular aerobics variations:
- Step aerobics. This style makes use of an elevated platform to add intensity to the aerobic workout. Doing step aerobics is an excellent way to tone and firm your legs and glutes.
- Water aerobics. Like other forms of water-based exercise, the primary benefit of water aerobics is that they add an element of resistance to your aerobic workout, yet without the strains and risk of injury posed by handheld weights.
- Dance aerobics. Combining aerobic activity with dance steps, dance aerobics are high-tempo and help you improve your grace and coordination all while burning off large amounts of calories.
- Walk aerobics. This aerobics style is ideal for people who are just getting back into exercising after a long layoff. Walk aerobics are low-impact, moderate-intensity workouts that use stepping and jogging in place and handheld weights or resistance bands.
Any one of these variations is sure to provide you with an effective, calorie-busting workout that will help you meet your fitness goals. You can take classes through a local gym or recreation center, work with a personal trainer, or use aerobics videos so you can exercise in the comfort of your own home.
Aerobics benefit your entire body, and research even suggests they have positive effects on your mind and your mood. Whether you're getting back into the swing of exercising regularly or you're a fitness buff looking for a new challenge, there's an aerobic routine out there that's right for you.
