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

Morning yoga, aqua aerobics, dance classes, and bocce ball are particularly popular with the parents. —Judy Koutsky, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2025

For more structured movement, Frank Brown Park offers group water aerobics classes in a heated outdoor pool—perfect for low-impact exercise and community connection year-round. —Carrie Honaker, Travel + Leisure, 15 Aug. 2025

Carroll was a cheerleader and her mother is an aerobics instructor. —Ronald Blum, Denver Post, 22 July 2025

Try out activities like swimming, strength training, aerobics, dancing, and biking. —Laura Dorwart, Verywell Health, 18 July 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