Where Did Aerobics Come From?

Aerobics are a method of physical conditioning dating to the late 1960s. The term was coined by Dr. Kenneth Cooper, the "father of aerobics." Cooper titled his book "Aerobics" based on his research on the benefits of exercise.

  1. Landmark Book

    • Cooper published "Aerobics" in 1968. He came up with the term by pluralizing the word "aerobic,'' which means to exist in air or oxygen. Cooper's book details his years of research working with NASA to develop a conditioning program for astronauts to prepare them for the rigors of space travel. Cooper's book has sold more than 30 million copies and has been translated into more than 40 languages.

    Founder

    • Early in life, Cooper was interested in becoming an astronaut. He joined the U.S. Army in 1957 and after two years transferred to the Air Force, intending to becoming an astronaut. While stationed in San Antonio, Texas, his weight skyrocketed by nearly 40 pounds. While enjoying water activities, he had chest pains. After undergoing a series of medical tests, it was determined that Cooper was just out of shape. Cooper lost the extra 40 pounds by exercising. After his experience, Cooper began researching the benefits of exercise, leading to his landmark book. He gave up his ambition of being an astronaut and spent his career promoting his findings.

    Research

    • Cooper established a 12-minute-mile test and a 1.5-mile-test to gauge a person's aerobic capability. During the 12-minute mile test, a person runs, jogs, or walks as quickly as possible for that amount of time. The 1.5-mile test was created to determine how fast a person can travel that far. Cooper also established the aerobics point system in 1968 to quantify exercise. The method calculates the type, intensity and intervals of aerobic exercise. Cooper detailed more than 40 activities providing aerobic benefit, including cross-country skiing, swimming, running, bicycling and walking.

    Defintion

    • In 1986, the Oxford English Dictionary accepted "aerobics" as a word. According to cooperaerobics.com, the definition of aerobics is: a "method of physical exercise for producing beneficial changes in the respiratory and circulatory systems by activities which require meeting a modest increase in oxygen intake and so can be maintained."

    Influence

    • After "Aerobics" was published, Cooper journeyed to 50 countries touting the benefits of aerobics. According to newfitness.com, aerobics and healthy eating are the most efficient ways to control weight. Aerobics also eases tense muscles, relieving stress. The governing body of international soccer, FIFA, uses Cooper's 12-minute test for soccer players and referees.