If the words "aerobics class" conjure up visions of people marching to pop music, it's time to broaden your definition. These days, an aerobics class includes warm-up, cardiovascular exercise, cool down and some type of strengthening or flexibility work such as stretching, resistance exercises or floor work. Depending on the type of aerobics class, the workout also might include dance, martial arts or equipment that increases the intensity of exercise.
Aerobic Activity
The key element that makes a class an aerobics class is the incorporation of aerobic activity. Aerobic activities raise your heart rate and target major muscle groups, including your arms and legs. The workout should make you breathe more rapidly and sweat. These processes increase the amount of oxygen in your blood, which makes your blood flow to your muscles as you exercise. If you maintain a vigorous pace, your body releases endorphins.
Dance Aerobics Class
A dance aerobics class typically features a half-hour portion dedicated to high-energy dance moves. Hip hop aerobics has stylized steps to fast-paced songs. In recent years, Zumba has gained popularity. This type of dance aerobics workout features a fusion of Latin dance steps, typically done to Latin pop music or reggaeton. NIA, or non-impact aerobics, centers around more flowing dance steps and free-form dance.
Kickboxing
Many aerobics class definitions include references to martial arts moves such as kicking, blocking or punching. Kickboxing incorporates all of these and expands on them. For example, punches include jabs, uppercuts, roundhouse punches and punch combinations. Some kickboxing classes also have punching bags, and more advanced classes might feature doing punches and blocks with a partner.
Step Aerobics
Step aerobics entails using a platform and risers onto which you step during the class. Typical step classes include moves that circumnavigate the step, cross the step and involve going up to the step and coming down. Advanced step classes might integrate light hand weights for doing body sculpting during the workout.
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