aerobics

plural noun

aer·​o·​bics ˌer-ˈō-biks 

1

singular or plural in construction : a system of physical conditioning involving exercises (such as running, walking, swimming, or calisthenics) strenuously performed so as to cause marked temporary increase in respiration and heart rate

2

: aerobic exercises

Did you know?

This is a system of physical conditioning intended to improve the body’s ability to take in and use oxygen. Aerobic exercises, such as running, jogging, swimming, and dancing, stimulate heart and lung activity. To produce a benefit, aerobic training must raise the heart rate (pulse) to the exerciser’s training level for at least 20 minutes and include at least three sessions a week.

Examples of aerobics in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Founder Jim Autry created the sneaker brand, focusing on shoes made for tennis, running, and aerobics. —Vogue, 2 May 2025

Never mind that these dudes are whooping, hollering and jumping up and down in a state of hormonal overload, all over a music video resembling a cheesy ’80s aerobics instructional. —David Fear, Rolling Stone, 9 Apr. 2025

But by the ‘80s, the young were getting into the nascent aerobics craze and balked at overeating. —Jeff Kleinman, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 2025

Water aerobics offers a full-body workout with pool exercises that incorporate arm, leg, and spine movements. —Tim Petrie, Dpt, Verywell Health, 18 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

aerob(ic) + -ics

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing aerobics

• step aerobics

Kids Definition

aerobics

singular or plural noun

aer·​o·​bics ˌa(-ə)r-ˈō-biks 

ˌe(-ə)r-

: a system of exercises intended to improve the body's ability to take in and use oxygen

Medical Definition

aerobics

noun plural

aer·​o·​bics -biks 

1

singular or plural in construction : a system of physical conditioning involving exercises (as running, walking, swimming, or calisthenics) strenuously performed so as to cause marked temporary increase in respiration and heart rate

2

: aerobic exercises