120519 Introduction to aerobic conditioning
Aerobic conditioning is your body’s adaptations to working continuously ‘with oxygen’ or in other words ‘with air’. It is also known as cardio respiratory endurance or aerobic power. The word ‘power’ indicates a strong response to imposed conditions.
Cardio work is a continuous activity that puts an increased demand on the heart, lungs, and circulatory systems of the body. Generally, large muscle groups of the body are involved for extended periods without a break, thus the term, ‘with air’. The original term “aerobics” came from the father of cardiovascular training, Dr. Kenneth Cooper, of the famed Cooper Institute.
It is a recognized fact that aerobic conditioning accomplishes all of the following:
- It has the potential to increase life expectancy
- Improvements occur in the overall quality of life
- Overall improvements in health and well being
- Reduces fatigue and increases the adaptability to meet the challenges of each day as they arise
- It can improve appearance, posture, self confidence and self concept
- Positive body composition changes occur with regular aerobic exercise
- Muscular endurance and muscle tone changes are positive in nature
- Stress maybe reduced
- Improvements in relaxation ability and decreased sleep pattern disruptions
- Positive cardiovascular changes and improved sport performance result from aerobic exercise
- Reductions in blood pressure and cholesterol may result-studies indicate this to be true
- Increased bone density due to the impact of the jogging or running
- Seniors may become more independent
- Finally, the ability to physically meet and hopefully overcome emergency situations
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