Aerobic, anaerobic and yoga exercises for fitness
Holistically speaking there are 3 dimensions of physical exercises- “Aerobic”, “Anaerobic” & “yoga type or flexibility” exercises. All are important and should be included in a balanced exercise program.
“Cardio” or “Aerobic” exercises, like jogging, cycling, etc provide following major benefits:
- Improve the muscles involved in respiration, to facilitate the flow of air in and out of the lungs
- Strengthen and enlarge the heart muscle, to improve its pumping efficiency and reduce the resting heart rate, known as aerobic conditioning.
- Improve blood circulation efficiency and reduce blood pressure.
- Increase the total number of red blood cells in the body & facilitate transportation of oxygen to cells.
- Improve mental health, to include stress reduction and lowering the incidence of depression, as well as increased cognitive capacity.
“Anaerobic” or strength building exercises like pushups, squats & weight training provide following major benefits:
- Build & maintain lean muscle mass.
- Prevent health problems- like low back ache, arthritis, & so on.
- Increase & maintain bone strength & density.
- Boost metabolism.
- Improve posture & appearance.
“Flexibility” or “Yoga” type exercises provide the following major benefits:
- Improve blood circulation- thus increase the blood flow and supply of nutrients to muscles and cartilage.
- Improve flexibility.
- Increase range of motion.
- Reduce physical & mental stress.
- Alleviate lower backache.
Two major principles of exercising are: regularity & variety. These must be obeyed.
Conclusion
Understanding and proper utilization of the 3 dimensions of exercising, viz-aerobic, anaerobic and yoga is vital for balanced and long term fitness.
