Health Tip: Aerobic Exercise

It gets your heart pumping and can help you lose weight

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(HealthDay News) -- Any exercise is beneficial, but aerobic exercise is what gets your heart rate up and burns calories. Examples of aerobic exercise include: running, swimming, biking, rowing and walking.

An effective aerobic exercise program should include a workout at least three times each week, advises the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

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The Academy recommends starting out with a 15-minute workout that includes a five-minute warm-up, five-minute workout, and five-minute cool-down. Gradually increase the workout portion until it reaches 20 minutes or longer.

Check with your doctor before you begin an aerobic exercise program, particularly if you have a chronic health condition, are overweight, a smoker, middle aged or older, or haven't exercised before.

-- Diana Kohnle