The word "aerobics" means "with oxygen." These exercises, energetic and vigorous enough, last long enough and are performed regularly to maintain the heart and lungs in good health. It is usually performed in groups with an instructor and background music. This article discusses the concept of "aerobics" (what are, varieties, what are the benefits of classes) and provides brief historical information.
Interest in aerobics has been growing at a lightning pace since the first days of its inception. An audience interested in good health and a beautiful body is aware of all its benefits. Such exercises burn fat faster than any other type of exercise.
Aerobics: what is it?
Behind the term "aerobics" is the concept of a more effective oxygen saturation that occurs during exercise. They must act on the body in such a way as to increase their oxygen consumption. Therefore, they must be continuous and at the same time rhythmic, so that all the larger muscle groups are involved.
Dr. Kenneth Cooper (a doctor and former runner) changed the world of fitness in 1968 by publishing a book called Aerobics. The exercises are simple and do not require any preliminary physical preparation, so all that is needed is the desire to follow the instructor on the way to health and a good figure. The publication of this eloquent speaker and a great motivator launched a new craze that spread to the masses.
A bit of history: life and movement
Aerobics is a system of exercises aimed at preventing the development of coronary artery disease, which was first put forward by Dr. Cooper in 1968 at the Texas Air Force Hospital. After the publication of the book, Jackie Sorenson developed a series of dances known as aerobic, the purpose of which is to strengthen the cardiovascular system. Thus, dance aerobics and other forms of exercises were born, which gained great popularity not only in the USA, but also in many other countries in a very short period of time (about two decades).
Serious sport
In 1983, Howard and Karen Schwartz developed a completely new and competitive sport called sports aerobics. Already in 1984, their organization received permission to hold the first national championship. In the beginning, in sports aerobics, competitions were held in four categories: among men, among women, mixed pairs and mixed trios. Since 2002, changes have been made, and now groups of six athletes could compete. In 1996, sports aerobics was officially adopted as one of the gymnastic disciplines.
Aerobic exercise puts stress on the heart and circulatory system of the body. This tension obliges the body to adapt, as a result of which many changes occur that bring positive results. The health benefits that can be gained from exercise are vital because they are not only exercises that help regulate weight, but also the ability to prevent the development of many common diseases. The following advantages can be distinguished that provide regular aerobics classes:
- Weight control.
- Reducing the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
- Decrease in the level of "bad" cholesterol.
- Increased endorphins.
- Increased body efficiency in oxygen uptake.
- Decrease in subcutaneous fat.
- Increased muscle tissue and its elasticity.
- Improving the quality of sleep, feeling of cheerfulness in the morning.
- Reducing the severity of chronic diseases such as heart disease or hypertension.
- A surge of strength, getting rid of fatigue.
- Maintain a good mood.
- Getting rid of depression, stress and anxiety.
- Prevention of cardiovascular disease.
- Lowering blood pressure.
Regular training increases blood flow, respectively, the heart drives away its large volumes. As a result, aerobic exercises gradually strengthen the heart, which allows you to extend their execution time.
Aerobics Beginner's Guide
There are several types of aerobics. Beginners can start with the varieties described below.
Step aerobics
The oldest form of aerobic exercise, however, one of the most recognized and effective. It can be held both in groups and at home, where rhythmic music for aerobics sets the pace for classes.
Bicycle aerobics
Since 1989, it became possible to train on a bicycle indoors. To this day, it is one of the most practiced activities in the gyms. Bike aerobics does not require any special skills, gives a chance to burn 500 calories in 45 minutes and is suitable for people of all ages. Another advantage of this type of aerobics is the psychological aspect. Classes are equipped with video projectors for a virtual trip with fantastic landscapes and soothing music.
Rope exercises
A jump rope is a device that can be used almost anywhere and anytime. To do the exercises you do not need to spend a lot of time on training, and the equipment costs a penny. For rhythm, fast music is used (for aerobics with a jump rope, the duration of the tracks can be used as a reference point in time).
Jazz aerobics
A popular aerobic workout in a group from a few people to dozens. Aerobics classes are conducted by certified instructors who teach specific dance movements and follow the performance technique during classes.
Yoga and aerobics
There is a huge misconception about yoga. It is generally accepted that yoga, first of all, involves stretching. However, this practice includes much more - yoga helps the respiratory system develop. The respiratory system includes organs that supply oxygen to the body.
Water aerobics
Aerobics is indispensable not only for problems with overweight. Almost everyone who has joint problems, back pain, fragile bones due to illnesses, as well as elderly people knows what this is and what benefits aqua aerobics is.
Tai Chi and other exercises for the mind and body in a mix with rhythmic loads
Along with the desire to look and feel good physically, many of us also want to stabilize the mental and spiritual aspects. Ancient oriental practices devote much attention to the latter, but achieving harmony with oneself is impossible without working on the physical membrane and saturating the body with oxygen.
Finally
Health, a fit body and aerobics ... What is and how these three concepts are related, today everyone knows who is strengthening their body and wants to live as long as possible. Aerobics is a type of exercise that combines rhythmic exercises with stretching and strength training in order to improve all health indicators (such as flexibility, muscle strength and the state of the cardiovascular system). Today the reality is that every person should find at least half an hour among his busy schedule to work on himself.