Aerobic exercise is a great way to increase your cardiorespiratory capacity. This type of exercise means “with oxygen” and helps to keep your heart, lungs, and circulatory systems healthy. An aerobics class can provide a supportive and encouraging environment to help you keep these systems healthy. It also offers opportunities for socialising with people trying to achieve the same goal as you are.
An aerobics class is usually designed according to the ages and fitness levels of the people attending.
What an aerobic session can consist of
An aerobics class consists of either cycling, kickboxing or choreographed exercises. These exercises fall under the better-known ‘cardio’ category of working out. These classes last 40 to 60 minutes and offer a total-body workout that develops endurance, strength and flexibility.
The instructor will take the class through a warm-up into a period of sustained aerobic work in combination with exercises that develop strength and flexibility. This is followed by a cool-down.
During the aerobic class, the instructor will show you the proper form and modify the exercises to any special needs you may have. For example, if you have a lower-back injury he or she will modify the exercises so that you don’t put strain on this part of your body.
Exercises you can expect during an aerobics class
Although walking, swimming and running would fall under the aerobic category of exercise, or ‘cardio’ as it’s more commonly called, it is difficult to do these exercises in a confined space.
Aerobics classes tend to focus on activities that can be done indoors and in smaller spaces. Each class starts with warm-up exercises and ends with cooldown stretches. Spinning, kickboxing, and Zumba are the three most common aerobics classes you will find. Here are some tips to prepare yourself with what to expect from the classes:
Spinning
Spin classes build strength and improve muscle tone and cardiovascular endurance. Even if the equipment looks similar to the bike you use to take leisurely ride through the park it is everything but. A spin or cycle class is designed to increase your heart rate while – at the same time – giving you a total body workout.
Spin classes include resistance and incline portions in the sessions. Classes are between 45 to 60 minutes long. Some spin classes require cycle shoes that “clip” into the bike and padded bicycle shorts or pants. The stationary bike is always provided. Always bring water with as you’ll sweat – a lot!
Kickboxing
Kickboxing is a high-impact exercise that builds strength and endurance. It also improves your reflexes.
Many people use kickboxing as a means to get rid of stress or frustration. This makes it beneficial both physically and emotionally.
Kickboxing combines martial arts, boxing, and aerobics. Your class may start with a warm-up of jogging, jumping jacks, or strengthening exercises such as push-ups. Then expect a series of punches, kicks, and hand strikes for the main workout.
Kickboxing classes are normally an hour long and happen one to three times a week.
To prepare for a kickbox class, all you need is gym shoes and lots of water.
Zumba
Zumba is good for your heart. It improves coordination and tones your whole body. It is also a great stress reliever.
Zumba is a dancing exercise that usually consists of easy-to-follow dance moves set to upbeat music. Classes usually last an hour and are held one to three times a week. Gym shoes and plenty of water are a MUST as you need to constantly replenish you fluid reserves during the class.
Contact Trifocus Fitness Academy
Aerobics classes are a great way to get a total body workout in a short space of time. This makes this type of exercise a great option for people with hectic schedules. If you want to learn more about aerobics and become an aerobics instructor yourself, check out Trifocus Fitness Academy’s Aerobics Course. On it, you’ll learn every thing you need to know about becoming an aerobics instructor that is in hot demand! For more information and to register, visit our website.
