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Benefits of Aerobic Exercise

Walking, jogging, running, cycling and swimming are all forms of aerobic exercise.

Aerobic fitness can be defined as the ability to take in, transport and utilise oxygen in the body to produce energy (Wilmore and Costill, 1999).

In long duration sub-maximal exercise such as walking and running the body uses a combination of fat and carbohydrates to produce energy.

The Benefits of Aerobic Exercise:

Heart

  • Increase size and strength of heart
  • Reduce resting heart rate
  • Reduce risk of heart disease

Lungs

  • Increase functional capacity during exercise and rest

Metabolic Function

  • Decrease insulin resistance and improved glucose tolerance — beneficial for treatment and prevention of diabetes
  • Reduced body fat
  • Increase maximal oxygen uptake for greater efficiency

Muscular Changes

  • Improved perception of muscle tone

Reference: (Wilmore and Costill, 1999).

Psychological Factors

  • Increased social interaction
  • Distraction from the daily routine
  • Decreased depression and anxiety more...

Reference: (ACSM, 1997).

References:

  • American College of Sports Medicine (1997) Exercise Management for Persons with Chronic Diseases and Disabilities. Champaign, Illinois: Human Kinetics.
  • Wilmore, J., & Costill, D. L. (1999) Physiology of Sport and Exercise. Champaign, Illinois: Human Kinetics.