Climbing up a staircase, jogging, brisk walking, working around the kitchen, doing normal household tasks all come under aerobics. Hence it can be done by almost anyone and does not require any special training or class. This is the reason why aerobics is more popular than any other form of exercise.

There are also more specific form of aerobics such as step aerobics, dance aerobics, water aerobics and low impact aerobics. These aerobics are done in a class and in the presence of an instructor. They help in reducing weight, maintaining the body shape and increasing flexibility. As they do not require any special training and are not very strenuous in nature, they can be done by anyone from working men and women, housewives and even overweight youngsters.

What is Aerobics?
Aerobic exercise is defined as any repetitive physical activity that is done long and hard enough, to enhance circulatory and respiratory efficiency. Aerobic means `with oxygen` and it requires the lungs and heart to meet the body’s increased oxygen demand. Hence, it may be called a system of physical conditioning that involves exercises such as running, swimming, cycling and skipping.

Ailments, such as hypertension, stroke, heart disease, diabetes and cancers can be avoided by regular aerobic exercise. The other benefits of regular aerobic exercises are that it can also lower our blood pressure, build stronger bones, and improve muscle strength and flexibility. Aerobics also helps us to control depression and body weight thus enabling us to lead a happy and healthy life.

Increasing popularity of Aerobics at Maher
Exercises are not same in nature. It depends on an individuals own potential and capabilities. However, it is interesting to note that a certain form of aerobics called water aerobics suits most individuals. The reason is because it makes the body buoyant, thus causing less strain and stress on the joints and muscles. There are also many other types of aerobics such as low-impact aerobics, step aerobics and dance aerobics. Dance aerobics has become one of the most popular forms of aerobic exercise as it not only gives an excellent workout but it is at the same time enjoyable. It is popular with the young crowd and also with housewives and working women as it is entertaining as well as useful.

We ennumerate Tips for bringing aerobics safely into your daily life

• Maintain a comfortable pace. For example, you should be able to hold a conversation while walking briskly. If you have difficulty breathing or feel faint or weak during or after exercise, you are exercising too hard.
• Increase your workout in stages to get the most benefits with the fewest risks. If you have not been exercising, start at a slow pace and gradually increase the amount of time and the pace of your activity as you become more fit.
• Select activities that fit your personality and have an element of fun. For example, if you like team sports or group activities; choose basketball or an aerobics class. If you prefer individual activities, choose swimming or walking.
• Plan a workout schedule. To gain the most health benefits it is important to exercise as regularly as possible. Alternating your aerobic activities helps to keep the excitement and anticipation in each sport alive.
• Challenge yourself. Set short-term as well as long-term goals and celebrate every success, no matter how small.
• Whether your goal is to control your weight or just to feel healthier, becoming physically active is a step in the right direction. Take advantage of the health benefits that regular exercise can offer and make physical activity a part of your lifestyle.

Dance Aerobics
Aerobic dance combines Ballet, country line dancing; salsa and hip-hop among many others dance movements into routines that are performed to music. Aerobic dance classes combine fat-burning aerobics with muscle building exercises and stretching. There is no jumping around in low-impact aerobic dance. You keep one foot on the ground at all times. It is slower paced and low-impact aerobic dance classes are good for you if you are older, overweight, or pregnant.

It is essentially an hour’s workout set to music. It begins with 5-10 minutes of warm-ups and stretching followed by 20-30 minutes of target heart range dance and then 20 minutes of a muscle stretching floor program known as body sculpting. It ends with 5-10 minutes of cool-down followed by more stretching. It is typically held about three to four times a week.