Aerobic training is exercise that requires the heart and lungs to work harder to meet the increased demand of the body's oxygen needs. Examples include running, cycling and swimming.
Aerobic Defined
The word aerobic literally means with oxygen. This is a reference to the fact that aerobic activities require the use of oxygen to perform.
Aerobic vs. Anaerobic
In contrast, anaerobic activities, like weight training, do not use oxygen in excessive amounts and therefore do not stress the heart and lungs the way aerobic exercises do.
Aerobic Training to Improve Heart and Lung Functioning
Aerobic training is the primary form of exercise to strengthen the heart and lungs. Because the human body is so good at adapting to stressors, specifically physiological stressors, the cardiovascular and respiratory systems can see great improvements from aerobic training.
Aerobic Transfer
Aerobic strength in one exercise does not equal aerobic strength in another. A strong cyclist will not necessarily make a strong rower. This is because different muscles require different metabolic and oxygen pathways.
Health Benefits of Aerobic Training
Aerobic activities have several health benefits. Besides the potential of weight loss/ maintenance, aerobic activities open up the blood vessels, which helps with the removal of waste products. The body will also release endorphins, natural pain-killers that promote a sense of well-being.
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