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

Examples include moderate or brisk walking, water aerobics, doubles tennis, slow cycling, or ballroom dancing. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2025

Some were assigned cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and others were assigned to exercise activities such as aerobics, swimming, and cycling in addition to their standard care for their condition for 12 weeks. —Audrey Noble, Vogue, 8 Oct. 2025

Before opening it, Madsen worked in the fitness industry, first as an aerobics instructor before evolving into a personal trainer, boot camp instructor and step aerobics instructor. —Carlos Rico, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 Sep. 2025

Morning yoga, aqua aerobics, dance classes, and bocce ball are particularly popular with the parents. —Judy Koutsky, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 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