Aerobic exercise, which is predominantly known as ‘cardio’, is a form of physical exercise which primarily utilises the aerobic energy pathways of the body.

The term ‘aerobic’ means that oxygen is required in order to meet the energy demands to perform aerobic exercise optimally and for prolonged periods of time. Aerobic exercise is used mainly to train and improve cardiovascular health, endurance, and blood circulation.

The forms of aerobic exercise that are most commonly recommended include brisk walking, swimming, running, indoor skiing, rowing, or cycling. However, there are many forms of aerobic exercise that will suffice. As aerobic exercise puts strain on your heart, lungs and circulatory system for a sustained period of time, it is often used and prescribed to all individuals with the intention of keeping their heart, lungs, and circulatory system healthy.

Additionally, aerobic forms of exercise have been shown to prevent or reduce the chance of developing some cancers, diabetes, depression, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Other benefits of aerobic exercise include improved lung function, reduced high blood pressure, reduced overall body weight, blood sugar and insulin regulation, increased HDL cholesterol levels, and reduced risk of developing heart/cardiovascular disease.

Read more