Authors : Singh S .
Page Nos : 333-334
Description :
Aerobic exercise (also known as cardio) is
physical exercise of low to high intensity that
depends primarily on the aerobic energy
-
generating process. Aerobic literally means "relating to,
involving, or requiring free oxygen", and refers to the use of oxygen to adequately meet energy demands
during
exercise via aerobic metabolism. Generally, light
-
to
-
moderate intensity activities that are
sufficiently supported by aerobic metabolism can be performed for extended periods of time. Aerobic
exercise has a number of positive effects, from reducing healt
h risks and maintaining healthy body
weight, to managing chronic conditions and boosting mood. People who exercise aerobically may actually
live longer than those who don't. Short
-
term effects of exercise are sometimes easier to notice, but several
studies
demonstrate that long
-
term effects exist that are just as desirable and beneficial. During aerobic
exercise, you move the large muscles in your legs, hips and arms, and your body responds quickly by
breathing faster and more deeply. Your heartbeat acceler
ates, increasing blood flow to your muscles and
lungs. Capillaries widen to take more oxygen to your muscles and carry away carbon dioxide and lactic
acid. Your body releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers that create an enhanced sense of well
-
b
eing. A study of long
-
term aerobic exercise on arterial stiffness in the elderly, reported in "Hypertension
Research," a Japanese journal, in 2007, focused on the cardiovascular system. Both systolic and diastolic
blood pressure significantly decreased aft
er 30 minutes of aerobic exercise. There were significant
decreases noted in arterial stiffness, systolic and diastolic blood pressure after the six
-
month exercise
period, leading researchers to conclude that long
-
term aerobic exercise can benefit elderly
people by
improving their cardiovascular health.
