Aerobic Exercise Routines

Aerobic exercise routines involve three phases. It starts with warming-up and then goes through a strenuous movement phase. The final stage is the cooling-down phase. Aerobic exercise, when done in this standard way, increases oxygen intake of the body. This is a key factor in staying healthy and fit.
Aerobic Exercise Routines
The dictionary meaning of the word aerobic is "depending on free oxygen or air". In living organisms, it denotes the consumption of oxygen in the metabolic processes of the body. The physical exercises which raise the use of oxygen by the body in its energy-generating operations, are known as the aerobic exercises. Aerobic exercises are among the highly appreciated physical-fitness-activities and is recommended by avowed exercise enthusiasts.

The benefits of aerobic exercises are many. The most important benefit is that they increase oxygen and blood circulation in the body. They raise the metabolic rate and tones the muscles. Aerobic exercises are quite simple and fun drills that are done playfully. A pair of good quality shoes, little space and your favorite high-beat music sets you ready to perform it at home only.

According to fitness experts, aerobic exercises should be performed at moderate levels in extended period of time. A typical aerobic exercise routine involves three phases, warming up, intensive movements and cooling down. Here is a brief description of all the three stages of an aerobic exercise session.

Warming-up Phase: Warming up is necessary before any strenuous activity as it stretches and loosens the body muscles. Warming-up prevents you from muscle cramps, muscle fatigue and injuries due to sudden jerk. You can warm up your body in several ways such as walk for about three minutes, climb the stairs or just step-touch backward and forward. Many sportsmen prefer warming up by bending forward and touching the toes for a count of 20-30. You can do other simple things like moving your arms one by one in circular motion, jumping for about five minutes,etc. You are ready for the next period when you feel your body warm and loosened up.

Comprehensive Phase: The comprehensive phase should last for about thirty minutes. Put on your preferred fast beat music. Repeat the below-mentioned movements to a count of six. The first movement is, step with your left foot, bend and try to touch the ground with the toe of the right foot. Do it alternatively as well. The second movement is to step your left foot, bend forward and touch the ground with the heel of your right foot. Do this movement alternatively. Step your left foot and raise your right foot and do it alternatively. The other aerobic movements involve moving four steps forward, backward and on the sides. Repeat this movement to a count of eight. Raise your arms towards the ceiling and bring them back down. Repeat this movement for a count of ten. Jump up and down for a few minutes. All these movements increase your heart beat, which itself raises the oxygen consumption. Physical activities such as swimming, rope-skipping and cycling are other examples of aerobic exercises. When you have been sweating for about ten minutes, you are ready to start with the final phase of the aerobic exercise routine.

Cooling-down Phase: Put on some slow beat music. Raise your arms up and inhale. Bring the arms down and exhale. Repeat this movement for a count of five. You can also perform some of the warming-up movements. It would relax your muscles. With the cooling-down phase, the aerobic exercise session is accomplished. Drink a glass of water and hydrate yourself.

It is advisable to perform the aerobic exercise at home, early in the morning. In the morning, the body consumes the stored fat to produce energy. This would enhance the fat burning and would help you lose weight fast. Aerobic exercises hardly require any equipment to perform. It needs only your interest and determination to have it in your daily routine. Working out with your most-loved music would always be fun and entertaining. There is no other way better than the aerobic exercises to stay fit and active. Include this aerobic exercise routine in your daily activities and enjoy a healthy life.

By Kalpana Kumari
Published: 8/14/2009
 
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