Getting Started

Aerobics is a great way to keep fit or get back into fitness.  There is bound to be a class at a venue near you and newcomers are always welcome.  Aerobics classes will cater for all levels and you really do get out what you put in.  You don’t need specialist kit and above all it is fun!

Aerobics classes are a specialised form of exercise aimed at strengthening the body's cardiovascular system without overly stressing any particular part of the body. It involves a lot of bodily movement (of course), but the movement is designed to be not overly repetitive. As such, it often involves a lot of specialised choreography, which is intimidating to beginners.

The body's cardiovascular system consists of the lungs, heart and veins. These are the body parts which get oxygen to the muscles. The better the cardiovascular system works, the longer the body can last before it has to draw on anaerobic energy reserves. Aerobic exercise is meant to reinforce this system, thereby enhancing the body's endurance.

There are two major kinds of aerobic exercise offered in classes.

• Step aerobics uses a step or riser to stress the leg muscles somewhat. The step is roughly four feet long by two feet wide by six inches high. Risers can make it up to one foot tall.

• Floor aerobics involves moving around on the ground. It's usually titled something like 'Cardio Challenge' to make it sound more exciting.
In recent years, step aerobics has been more popular than floor exercises. This is largely because step aerobics classes can play slower music and get the same cardiovascular benefit. Plus, step aerobics actually involves 'work' by the muscles in the gravitational sense. Many gyms now offer only step aerobics, not floor.

Kit you'll need

Any aerobics class is designed to make you sweat so some appropriate clothing is required.  There is a huge choice of kit and you are bound to find something to suit. But remember that while style is important, comfort is everything. 

It is also worth spending a little time choosing some decent training shoes that fit well.  Given that you are going to be sweating a little, take along a drinks bottle preferably with a proper energy drink to replace the sugar and salt you will be losing.

What's Good

Aerobics is great for almost anyone but the usual warnings apply so if you are just starting out or have any medical concerns then consult your doctor first.  Aerobics is a highly sociable form of exercise and you will likely make some new friends.  Don’t worry about embarrassing yourself as a beginner as everyone will have been there before.

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