What Are The Benefits Of Aerobic Training?

The word "aerobic" is related to oxygen; an aerobic being survives in the presence of oxygen, for example. Aerobic training, or aerobic exercise, is a workout that increases or improves how your body uses oxygen, which can benefit both your physical and mental health. Walking, swimming, running, biking, team sports and dancing are a few examples of aerobic training that use your muscles and elevate your heart and respiration rates while you're exercising. Consult your doctor before beginning any form of aerobic training.

Heart Health

Heart health is an important benefit associated with aerobic training. The American Heart Association explains that when you participate in regular physical activity that includes aerobic components, your heart becomes stronger and is able to work more efficiently. This efficiency of heart function exists both while you're exercising as well as when you're not -- your heart won't need to beat as fast and will circulate your blood more easily throughout your body as it delivers oxygen and other nutrients to your organs. Aerobic exercise can reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke. Aerobic exercise also regulates your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Weight Management

Participating in an aerobic workout contributes to weight management, which is a benefit to both physical health and emotional well-being. The exertion of your muscles when you're playing a sport, jogging or swimming burns calories; when combined with a healthy diet that is low in fat and high in fiber, fresh produce and protein, you may be able to lose a few pounds or maintain a healthy weight. Achieving an ideal weight through aerobic training can also reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition that is more prevalent among people who are overweight. If you are already diagnosed with diabetes, aerobic activity can help control your blood glucose levels, according to MayoClinic.com

Immunity Boost

You may notice that when you're exercising regularly, you don't tend to catch as many colds. According to MayoClinic.com, aerobic training can boost your immune system, making you less likely to fall ill. A Turkish study reported in the August 2005 issue of "Neuroendocrinology Letters" showed an increase of immunoglobulins in the blood of women who walked on a treadmill for 30 minutes every day, as well as a decrease in the stress hormone cortisol. Immunoglobulins are antibodies that protect your immune system against damage and disease. In addition to an immunity boost, MayoClinic.com reports that you might feel less fatigued when you exercise.

Mental Acuity and Emotional Well-Being

Aerobic training isn't just good for your body; its benefits extend to your mental and emotional state as well. The increase in oxygen that flows to your brain when you exercise can help you think more clearly, logically and express yourself in a more articulate fashion. Sweden's Sahlgrenska University Hospital studied adolescents who participated in aerobic physical fitness tasks and found that the kids who exercised scored better on cognitive assessment testing. In addition to the possible addition of mental sharpness, you'll feel better emotionally when you exercise. The act of working your muscles releases endorphins, chemicals in your body that make you feel good.