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Aerobic exercise

Aerobic exercise gets the heart working to pump blood through the body more quickly and with more force than normal. Breathing quickens so the lungs deliver extra oxygen to the blood. Aerobic exercise strengthens the heart and boosts healthy cholesterol levels. Low impact aerobics include walking and swimming. Running, tennis, and basketball are high impact aerobics.

Reviewed last on: 3/1/2009
Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathyphysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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