Aerobic exercise

Aerobic exercise gets the heart working to pump blood through the body more quickly and with more force than normal. Breathing quickens so the lungs deliver extra oxygen to the blood. Aerobic exercise strengthens the heart and boosts "good" (HDL) cholesterol levels. Low-impact aerobics include walking and swimming. Running, tennis, and basketball are high impact aerobics.

Review Date: 5/6/2018

Reviewed By: Diane M. Horowitz, MD, Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Northwell Health, Great Neck, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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