Aerobic fitness means increasing how well the body uses oxygen,
which depends on the condition of the heart, lungs, and muscles. Experts tend
to describe aerobic activity in three ways: light, moderate, and
vigorous.
When people do moderate-intensity activities, they
notice a faster heartbeat. To get the benefits of moderate activity, a person
can:
- Walk briskly.
- Cycle briskly (15 to
20 kilometres per hour [kph]).
- Shoot baskets.
- Play golf
without using a cart.
- Sail or windsurf.
- Ballroom
dance.
- Swim leisurely.
- Mow the lawn (but don't use a
riding mower).
- Sweep floors, vacuum, or mop.
The goal of aerobic fitness is to increase the amount of
oxygen that goes to the heart and muscles, which allows them to work longer.
Any activities, including many kinds of daily activities, that raise the heart
rate and keep it up for an extended period of time can improve aerobic fitness.
If the activities are done regularly and long enough, they can help improve
fitness.
Experts recommend that adults try to do moderate to vigorous activity
for at least 2½ hours a week. You can choose to do one or both types of activity. And it's
fine to be active in blocks of 10 minutes or more throughout the day and week.
Children as young as preschool age benefit from being active. It's best for teenagers and children (starting at age 5) to do moderate to vigorous activity at least 1 hour every day.
Moderate activity is safe for most
people, but it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting an
exercise program.
