Cardio: The Basics

Benefits And Beyond

By Janet Smith, PEERtrainer Health and Fitness Writer
Regardless of age, sex or your current physical status performing aerobics on a consistent basis provides many benefits to your body. 

Aerobics for a Total Body Workout

Aerobic exercise involves the aerobic system of your body – your heart, your lungs, and your muscles.  During aerobic exercise the number of heart beats per minute increases to get your blood pumping more quickly and with more force.  Increasing heart activity also increases your breathing rate.  More oxygen is consumed in a shorter time span, thus more oxygen reaches tissues and muscles. 

Transporting more oxygen throughout your body increases the distribution of nutrients, burns more calories and provides you with more energy.  As you increase your activity level to this point you automatically begin to receive the benefits of aerobic exercise. 

Regular aerobic exercise results in a stronger, learner, more flexible body.  Internally your body is able to use oxygen more efficiently, and your metabolism speeds up.  It makes no difference whether you choose low impact or high impact aerobics, or whether you choose short 10 minute sessions or 45 to 60 minute sessions of exercise, you still receive the benefits. 

The Benefits Continue While You Are At Rest.

Benefits of aerobic exercise don’t stop once your exercise session is over.  Have you ever noticed that after a brisk walk, or swimming, or your exercise session you feel more energized and alert? That’s because your body has been rejuvenated with oxygen and nutrients. 

Consistent aerobic exercise helps control weight, hypertension, and can even help reduce cholesterol.  It’s also a great way to prevent diabetes or get diabetes under control. 

According to Harvard Medical School, aerobic exercise can also help your body’s immune system fight allergies, and disease.  Aerobics can even help boost your mood and improve your sense of well-being.   

In short, from head to toe, aerobic workouts can benefit your body. .For a body that’s better able to handle everyday activities and the stress of a hectic lifestyle, aerobics should be at the top of your to-do list.