Exercise is vital to maintain good physical and mental health. However, even gym junkies will tell you finding the motivation to work out can be hard. It can be even harder when you are brand new to the fitness game – you might not even know where to start!
Below, we’ll explore some subcategories of different exercises you can try and how to get started.
The Types and Benefits of Exercise
Generally, there are three categories of exercise you can try. These include:
- Aerobic exercise
- Anaerobic exercise
- Agility training
Each exercise type has certain benefits. You may choose to focus on one exercise type over the other depending on your physical ability and desired results.
Aerobic Exercise
Perhaps one of the most popular forms of exercise, aerobic exercise (otherwise known as cardio) helps improve blood flow and oxygenation in the body. Aerobic exercises typically are performed at an average, consistent level of intensity over a long period, such as going for a jog.
Aerobic exercise has numerous benefits, such as:
- Improved circulation
- Improved respiratory strength and health
- Lowered blood pressure
- Promotes better sleep
- Enhances stamina and endurance
Aerobic exercise sessions usually start with a light stretch and warm-up, followed by exercising for at least 20 minutes and ending with a light cool-down session.
Some examples of aerobic exercises to try are:
- Jogging
- Climbing stairs or using a stair stepper
- Biking or using a cycling machine
- Hiking
Anaerobic Exercise
Anaerobic exercise does not use oxygen for energy. This type of exercise builds strength and muscle. These exercises are usually performed at a high intensity for short intervals.
Anaerobic exercise has lots of benefits, such as:
- Improved muscle strength
- Improved calorie burning, even when at rest
- Not as intensive on the heart or lungs as aerobic exercise
- Improves physical strength and endurance
There are many examples of anaerobic exercise regimens to try. Some include:
- Weightlifting
- Timed sprints
- Intense, timed rope skipping
- Interval training
Anaerobic exercise should always be prepared for by stretching and warming the muscles before starting. Also, adhering to a healthy diet is extremely important to ensure you are maximizing your potential to build more muscle.
Agility Training
Agility training improves an individual’s ability to quickly change motions while exercising. This type of training challenges the body to move between several different positions and stances frequently. As such, this can help with coordination, balance, and strength.
People who play sports must participate in agility training regularly. However, agility training is useful for non-athletes, too. It can improve flexibility, coordination, and more.
Some examples of agility training are:
- Exercises that involve weaving in between cones or other barriers
- Playing a game of tennis
- Engaging in a kickboxing class
- Tossing a weighted ball back and forth
Conclusion
Now that you understand the subtypes of exercise, and what each can do for your body, hopefully, you will find it easier to get started. Ideally, a good workout will focus on each subtype briefly. Cardio is often paired with weightlifting in a gym setting, to get a full-body workout. However, any exercise is good – so do what makes you most excited and comfortable!
