The History of Aerobic Dance

Aerobics, meaning "with oxygen" is any series of exercises designed to raise the heart rate and encourage better use of oxygen. According to the American Heart Association, performing aerobics regularly is good for the heart, lungs and circulation, and also helps maintain good physical fitness. Many common forms of exercise use aerobics.

  1. The beginning

    • Both the name aerobics and the exercise were invented by Dr. Kenneth H. Cooper, a man now known as "The Father of the Modern Fitness Movement." He first wrote his book "Aerobics" in 1968, sparking a fitness revolution. He has gone on to write eighteen more books and coined the phrase, "Fitness is a journey, not a destination. It must be continued for the rest of your life," which can now be found on the back of Baked Lays packages.

    Aerobics point system

    • In 1968, Dr. Cooper formulated the Aerobics Point System, which scores workouts based on type of exercise, length, and intensity. For example, running one mile in ten minutes earns four points. Of the 41 exercises listed, the five most effective according to the Point System are cross-country skiing, swimming, running or jogging, cycling and walking. In order to maintain good health, Dr. Cooper recommends accumulating 120 aerobic points per month.

    Types of aerobics

    • Today there are countless workouts that use aerobics, but some of the most popular include dance aerobics, step aerobics, water aerobics, spinning (indoor cycling) and kickboxing.