Aerobics is one of those generic words that will either have you running for the couch or it will have you asking ‘type?’ or ‘level?’ – largely depending on your exposure to physical exercise. So lets find out some more!

An aerobics class will lead you through a variety of structured movements that will raise your heart rate and get blood and oxygen flowing more quickly around the body. It works on every area of your body. Big deal! Well, yes it is. An aerobics workout will help burn fat and can lead quickly to weight loss.

Aside from the aesthetic bonus, there are a few more important benefits that might get you thinking. So, what else is it good for? Well, imagine this, 30 minutes of aerobic activity each day can help you live longer and healthier. Participating in an aerobics class releases endorphins which gives you an increased sense of well being. It has been scientifically proven that exercise helps reduce depression and eases stress by raising your serotonin levels. Aerobics gives you a natural ‘high’ and given the economic conditions, we could all do with a pick-me-up. Many well known celebrities continually reference their aerobics classes for lifting them out of difficult periods in their lives.

Before you start planning your new aerobics life and picturing your beach body – there are a few things to consider. You have to choose the right class for your level of fitness. Some classes offer beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. On top of that you can choose a class that suits your taste in activity or even music – everything from Latin Dance Aerobics, Kick-aerobics, Step Aerobics, Dance Aerobics and Aqua-aerobics.

The following are the top three to get started..

A Kick-aerobics class incorporates martial-arts style kicking and other structured movements to exercise routines. Don't worry about being knocked out,  it's non-contact. Great stress buster!

Step aerobics is beneficial for developing and strengthening the muscles in your legs,spine and hips, and also works on your co-ordination. With step aerobics you feel results quite quickly. It will just take a little while to get use to that step!

Dance aerobics is the perfect way to exercise and have fun too. Expect dance variations - aerobically themed. You can even put your newly learned routines to the test on a Saturday night dance floor!

By the way, don't worry about putting together the perfect aerobics outfit. It’s all about sweating it out – so wear clothes that allow your skin to breathe and to move. Lycra body stockings and jump suits are not a requirement! Think t-shirts and tracksuit bottoms.

Remember ‘no pain, no gain’ and yes you will want to exit after the warm-up when you realise ‘that wasn’t the class afterall!’  Don’t worry – it will feel like a warm-up when you go second time around. We promise.

To find aerobics classes in your area, check out the following link - Aerobics classes on Gymclasses.ie >>