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Faizan
Aerobic exercise is often touted as a surefire remedy for those who want to improve their health and prevent chronic diseases. And while aerobic exercise -- like walking, biking, or swimming -- does have health benefits, there are also certain drawbacks. Understanding the disadvantages of aerobic exercise is important for those who are thinking about incorporating it into their daily fitness routine.
Weight Loss
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that nearly 36 percent of the U.S. population is currently living with obesity. For these individuals, aerobic exercise -- which burns calories and aids in weight loss -- can be highly beneficial. People who are underweight and struggling with weight gain, however, may not fare so well, as participation in an aerobic exercise routine may actually exacerbate low weight status. The American Council on Exercise states that people who wish to avoid weight loss while actively engaged in an aerobic exercise routine must carefully monitor their caloric intake to maintain proper balance.
Decreases in Muscle Mass
During aerobic exercise, the body often relies on fuel stores to provide energy and maximize performance. While the carbohydrates found in glucose and glycogen are a ready source of energy, as is fat in the case of aerobics, the body will turn to muscle mass as an energy source of last resort if needed to obtain the needed fuel during a challenging aerobic exercise session. These loss can be especially detrimental to the elderly, who are already at risk for muscle atrophy as they age. For younger exercisers, this can happen if the aerobic training is excessive, depending on nutrient intake and body composition.
Elevated Blood Pressure Levels
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, blood pressure typically increases during aerobic exercise, to aid in the circulation of oxygenated blood through the body. In some cases, systolic blood pressure readings can reach to 250 mm Hg or higher. While most adults can handle these spikes in blood pressure levels -- and may actually benefit from a lowered blood pressure reading in the long run -- elevated systolic readings can be dangerous for some people living with heart disease. The American College of Sports Medicine says that those with a history of cardiovascular dysfuction should stop aerobic exercise if their blood pressure increases to 200 mm Hg.
Increased Fluid Loss
Fluid loss -- through both sweat and increased respiration -- is common during aerobic exercise. If fluid losses are significant and replacement does not occur, aerobic exercisers may develop dehydration. The American Council on Exercise encourages exercisers to drink at least eight ounces of fluid for every pound lost during activity. Fluid intake should occur before, during, and after aerobic exercise to be most effective in the prevention of dehydration.
Weight Loss
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that nearly 36 percent of the U.S. population is currently living with obesity. For these individuals, aerobic exercise -- which burns calories and aids in weight loss -- can be highly beneficial. People who are underweight and struggling with weight gain, however, may not fare so well, as participation in an aerobic exercise routine may actually exacerbate low weight status. The American Council on Exercise states that people who wish to avoid weight loss while actively engaged in an aerobic exercise routine must carefully monitor their caloric intake to maintain proper balance.
Decreases in Muscle Mass
During aerobic exercise, the body often relies on fuel stores to provide energy and maximize performance. While the carbohydrates found in glucose and glycogen are a ready source of energy, as is fat in the case of aerobics, the body will turn to muscle mass as an energy source of last resort if needed to obtain the needed fuel during a challenging aerobic exercise session. These loss can be especially detrimental to the elderly, who are already at risk for muscle atrophy as they age. For younger exercisers, this can happen if the aerobic training is excessive, depending on nutrient intake and body composition.
Elevated Blood Pressure Levels
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, blood pressure typically increases during aerobic exercise, to aid in the circulation of oxygenated blood through the body. In some cases, systolic blood pressure readings can reach to 250 mm Hg or higher. While most adults can handle these spikes in blood pressure levels -- and may actually benefit from a lowered blood pressure reading in the long run -- elevated systolic readings can be dangerous for some people living with heart disease. The American College of Sports Medicine says that those with a history of cardiovascular dysfuction should stop aerobic exercise if their blood pressure increases to 200 mm Hg.
Increased Fluid Loss
Fluid loss -- through both sweat and increased respiration -- is common during aerobic exercise. If fluid losses are significant and replacement does not occur, aerobic exercisers may develop dehydration. The American Council on Exercise encourages exercisers to drink at least eight ounces of fluid for every pound lost during activity. Fluid intake should occur before, during, and after aerobic exercise to be most effective in the prevention of dehydration.
