The beginning of Fall is quickly approaching! With decreasing temperatures, both indoor and outdoor aerobic exercising will be appropriate to get fit and have fun. Let’s talk about the benefits of aerobic exercise.
Aerobic exercise, also known as cardiovascular exercise (“cardio”), supplies oxygen to the muscles being used during exercise through the pumping of oxygenated blood. Cardio also increases both heart rate and breathing rate in order to assist the human body during exercise. The American Heart Association® recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity at least 5 days per week for a total of 150 minutes. If you can’t fulfill this requirement, no worries! In the words of the American Heart Association: “Something is always better than nothing!”
The following are some aerobic exercises with examples that are common for indoor and outdoor aerobic exercise:
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Cardio machines: treadmills, elliptical, stair mills, and spin bikes
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Aerobics classes: step classes, kickboxing, and Zumba®
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Swimming
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Boxing
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Running
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Jogging
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Hiking
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High intensity interval training or circuit training
Aerobic exercise also has the abilities to improve cardiovascular tolerance along with lowering resting heart rate, cholesterol and blood pressure. For those suffering from high cholesterol and blood pressure, the American Heart Association® specifically recommends 40 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity aerobic activity for three to four times a week. Also, if you need further instruction and supervision on the best exercise plan for you, certified personal trainers are always available at your nearest gym. If you have a complex medical history with heart, blood pressure, diabetes or other injuries, a physical therapist could be your best bet to get started safely. Now let’s get moving!