A method of conditioning the cardiorespiratory system by using a variety of activities that create an increased demand for oxygen over an extended period of time.
Continuous rhythmic exercise using the large muscles of the body over an extended period of time. Aerobic exercise increases the body’s demand for oxygen, thereby adding to the workload of the heart and lungs and elevating the heart rate.
Activity requiring motion that increases oxygen consumption, such as walking, running, bicycling, swimming, and other active sports activities.
Exercise vigorous enough to improve the rate at which the lungs exchange oxygen.
Exercise system based on continuous action movements, as in swimming, dancing, bicycling, running, or walking. Designed to increase oxygen consumption and improve functioning of the lungs and cardiovascular system (compare calisthenics).
A form of physical exercise that increases the heart rate and blood flow to deliver more oxygen to the working muscles. Aerobic exercise is physical exertion and repetitive motion of the large muscles, such as the leg muscles, that sustain increased heart, lung, and circulatory rates. These body systems supply the working muscles in the body with the amount of oxygen they require to continue functioning and to remove by-products and wastes of the metabolic process. A person’s maximum aerobic capacity is a measure of the body’s ability to accomplish this. Repetitive, sustained physical activities, such as brisk walking, jogging, running, swimming, rowing, hiking, bicycling, rope jumping, aerobic dancing and step aerobic classes, and cross-country skiing, are considered aerobic exercise and can increase a person’s aerobic capacity.
Exercise during which oxygen is metabolized to produce energy. Aerobic exercise is required for sustained periods of physical exertion and vigorous athletic activity.
Repetitive, nonstop activity that raises the breathing and heart rates.
Any exercise that requires additional effort by the heart and lungs to meet the increased demand by the skeletal muscles for oxygen.
In the realm of physical fitness, a multitude of exercises beckon, each harboring a unique ability to elevate the body’s oxygen consumption and enhance the intricate machinery of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. These captivating activities intertwine with our physiology, bestowing upon us a precious gift of improved vitality and well-being.