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

Water Aerobics Like swimming, water aerobics is a low-impact option for people looking for a cardiovascular (cardio) workout (exercises involving the heart and blood vessels. —Tim Petrie, Dpt, Verywell Health, 18 Mar. 2025

In The Substance, Moore portrays Hollywood star Elisabeth Sparkle, who is fired from her long-running gig as the host of an aerobics television series on her 50th birthday. —Nicholas Rice, People.com, 8 Feb. 2025

The Substance stars Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle, an aerobics star who, after being fired at 50, turns to a mysterious substance that offers to transform her into an enhanced version of herself. —Glenn Garner, Deadline, 6 Jan. 2025

The Last Showgirl actress, 66, recreated her famous aerobics scene from her 1985 film Perfect, which also stars John Travolta, on the latest episode of The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon — only the pair's new version featured several saucy twists! —Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 9 Jan. 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