Aerobic exercise gets the heart working to pump blood through the heart more quickly and with more force than normal. As blood is pumped faster, it must be oxygenated more quickly, which quickens respiration. Aerobic exercise strengthens the heart and boosts healthy cholestrol levels. Low impact aerobics include walking and swimming. Running, tennis and dance are high impact aerobics.

The word aerobic literally means "with oxygen" or "in the presence of oxygen". Aerobic activity trains the heart, lungs and cardiovascular system to process and deliver oxygen more quickly and efficiently to every part of the body. As the heart muscle becomes stronger and more efficient, a larger amount of blood can be pumped with each heartbeat. As a result, a fit individual can work longer, more vigorously and achieve a quicker recovery at the end of the aerobic session.

What things should I keep in mind before starting aerobic exercises?

There are three factors that you should keep in mind before starting any aerobic exercise.
Frequency: most experts believe that 3-5 times per week of aerobic activity is fine.
Duration: 20-60 minutes of an exercise session is considered optimal.
Intensity: This refers to the percentage of your maximum heart at which you work. Experts believe that achieving 60-90% of age-specific maximal heart rate should be the target of an aerobics session. Another simple measure of working at optimal intensity is the so called 'talk test’. You should be able to talk without gasping for air while working at optimal intensity. If you cannot, you should scale down. On the other hand if you are able to even sing then you should step up.

Labels: Aerobic Exercise, Aerobic Exercise Rules