aerobics

American  

[uh-roh-biks] / əˈroʊ bɪks /

noun

1. Also called aerobic exercises.  (used with a plural verb) any of various sustained exercises, as jogging, rowing, swimming, or cycling, that stimulate and strengthen the heart and lungs, thereby improving the body's utilization of oxygen.

2. (used with a singular verb) a physical fitness program based on such exercises.

   Aerobics is a good way to get your body in shape.

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aerobics British  

/ ɛəˈrəʊbɪks /

noun

1. (functioning as singular) any system of sustained exercises designed to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood and strengthen the heart and lungs

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aerobics Cultural  

1. Exercise designed specifically to improve cardiovascular fitness and, subsequently, the body's use of oxygen. Also called aerobic exercise.

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Discover More

The term aerobics usually refers to a specific kind of vigorous exercise, sometimes involving dance steps, that is set to music. Other forms of aerobic exercise include running, cycling, and swimming.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• aerobicist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of aerobics

1965–70; see aerobic, -ics; probably shortened from aerobic exercises on the model of calisthenics

Explanation

Aerobics is a type of exercise that works the heart and lungs, leaving you breathing hard. When you do aerobics, you work up a sweat. Aerobics is a kind of workout that makes you breathe faster and gets your heart pounding, like jogging or biking uphill. When people talk about aerobics, they sometimes mean a specific exercise program that's often done in groups, accompanied by loud music. This kind of aerobics has been around since the 1960s, combining vigorous movements, stretching, and strength training. Aerobics comes from aerobic, originally "living only in the presence of oxygen," with the Greek roots aero, "air," and bios, "life."

Example Sentences

Water aerobics was thankfully in the indoor pool, but it was chilly getting out of the water.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026

They use a "flywheel exercise device," similar to a yo-yo, that can allow for aerobics like rowing as well as provide resistance to perform moves like weighted squats and deadlifts.

From Barron's • Apr. 4, 2026

Jane Fonda in aerobics garb in the ‘80s. 3. A makeup artist applying Arnold Schwarzenegger’s “Terminator” prosthetics.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2026

From the outside, it's just a public leisure centre on the edge of town, with sprightly pensioners staying flexible in aerobics classes and excitable kids in for swimming lessons.

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2026

I do aerobics, but just a few times a week now, and I let myself eat until I’m full, and don’t worry so much about getting fat.

From "The Queen of Water" by Laura Resau