It’s important to understand what the myths and facts concerning aerobics are before beginning an exercise programme, in order to get maximum results. A fitness programme should be a combination of workouts. Not just cardio or weight training alone, the key is balance. There are a few myths out there that will hinder weight loss, and maybe even cause injury. It’s best to learn the truth about aerobic exercise and its benefits before you begin an exercise regime.
The bias towards ‘aerobics’ in the fitness industry and media stems from a common misunderstanding. The function of the cardiovascular system is to support the muscular system – not the other way round! If the human body is logical (and we assume that it is) then increases in muscular strength (from a proper weight training programme) will correlate to improvements in cardiovascular function.
‘Aerobic’ literally means “with oxygen”. Most of us have been taught that to exercise using aerobics is to perform long duration steady-state activities which produce an elevated heart rate. Low intensity training is said to stress the aerobic metabolic pathway allowing the body to use fat as a fuel. However, elevated heart rate is not an indicator of exercise intensity, exercise effect or exercise value. It is quite possible to experience a fast pulse, breathlessness and profuse sweating without achieving valuable exercise!