Aerobic exercise
Aerobic exercise is any type of physical activity that raises your heart rate and breathing rate. It is often referred to as “cardio” exercise. Aerobic activities improve your cardiovascular health, help you burn calories, and can boost your mood.
Examples of aerobic exercises include:
- Running
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Dancing
- Walking
- Hiking
- Zumba
- Aerobics classes
Benefits of aerobic exercise:
- Improved cardiovascular health: Aerobic exercise strengthens your heart and lungs, making them more efficient at pumping blood throughout your body.
- Weight loss: Regular aerobic exercise can help you burn calories and lose weight.
- Increased energy levels: Aerobic exercise can help you feel more energized and less fatigued.
- Reduced risk of chronic diseases: Aerobic exercise can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
- Improved mental health: Aerobic exercise can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
How much aerobic exercise do you need?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week. You can also break this up into shorter bouts of exercise throughout the week.
If you’re new to exercise, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. It’s also a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
