Choose the Right Class
Everything taught in the "aerobics" room is no longer aerobic. So many different kinds of classes are offered that the proper term is now "group exercise" rather than "aerobics." To qualify as aerobic exercise, a class must have continuous movement that raises your heart rate. You will find the old aerobic standbys like low impact, high-low, and step, and many dance-based classes that are aerobic. Some, but not all, martial arts-based classes qualify. Stretch and tone doesn't make it. Neither do pilates or yoga, though these are great exercise modes for other purposes. If you count on classes for your aerobic exercise, make sure you choose a class that includes at least 20 continuous minutes of movement you do on your feet.