First things first, what is aerobic exercise after all?
“The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) defines aerobic exercise as any activity that uses large muscle groups, can be maintained continuously and is rhythmic in nature [10]. As the name implies, muscle groups activated by this type of exercise rely on aerobic metabolism to extract energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from amino acids, carbohydrates and fatty acids.”
Patel, H., Alkhawam, H., Madanieh, R., Shah, N., Kosmas, C.E. and Vittorio, T.J. (2017)
To simplify, aerobic exercise refers to exercise that uses your body’s largest muscles and requires significantly more oxygen than when at rest.
Why should you do Aerobic exercise? We will give you 10 reasons:
- Improves Your Mental Health and Mood
When you exercise, you release what is known as “feel-good” hormones, specifically serotonin, which is associated with a better mood. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression. So, make sure you exercise not just for yourself, but also for the sake of your mental health. You’ve got this! - Lower Blood Pressure
Staying active is important for maintaining a healthy heart and blood vessels. High blood pressure can cause damage to blood vessels which can lead to serious health issues such as heart attack or stroke. If you find it difficult to stay active, start slowly with 10,000 steps a day. This can help you gradually increase your activity level and improve your overall health. - Good For Your Heart
Aerobic exercise strengthens your heart muscles, making it more effective at pumping blood throughout the body. Consistent exercise can also increase the heart’s chamber size, particularly in the left ventricle. - Weight Management
Exercising can help with weight management when combined with a balanced diet. Aerobics can increase daily calorie burn. - Helps You Sleep
Getting at least 7 hours of sleep per night is absolutely essential for good health. In fact, sleeping less than 6 hours per night can lead to various health problems such as mental health issues, obesity, and heart problems. It is crucial to prioritize getting enough sleep to maintain good mental health. Remember, exercise can also improve the quality of your sleep, so try to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. - Age Gracefully
Although exercise is important for current health, it’s even more crucial for future life quality and confidence with ageing. - Stronger Bones
Aerobic exercise can improve bone density, preserve bone tissue, and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. - It’s For Everybody!
Yes, you read it correctly – exercise is for everyone! Regardless of your age, gender, disabilities, or health conditions, exercise can be adapted to suit your needs. Don’t let anything hold you back! However, if you have any health conditions, it’s important to seek professional help before starting an exercise routine. Your exercises may need to be adjusted to your condition, and it may not be safe to try them without professional supervision. - Socialize
Exercising is a great way to socialize! Why not invite a friend for a run in nature or a bike ride around the city? - Big Booster For Your Self-Esteem!
Regular exercise releases feel-good hormones that can lead to an overall sense of satisfaction. However, exercise not only improves mental and physical health but also empowers individuals to exceed their own expectations, which can increase feelings of empowerment and self-confidence.
Please note that this information does not replace professional advice. If you have any doubts, always seek advice from a professional in the relevant field.
