One option for activities for exercise is Aerobics classes. I wish there was an easy way to describe what this actually means. It’s difficult because there are lots of types of classes that fall into the category of aerobics classes. And, ironically, many of them are not even aerobic. I’ll break this answer into two options: easy and complicated.
Easy Answer
Aerobics classes are any exercise classes where you perform activities that get your heart rate up and cause you to burn calories, lose weight, get fit, etc. These classes can involve dance, steps, big movements and mats. They can take on many names: aerobics, step aerobics, step aerobics, jazzercise, etc.
Complicated Answer
By definition, the name “aerobics” should imply that aerobics exercises are being performed. This means that the exercisers are maintaining a heart rate that keeps them at a level where blood is sufficiently providing oxygen out to the working muscles and fat is being used as the primary fuel. The problem with this name for these classes is that the classes are generally performed at too high a rate and therefore, none of the above description is really happening. In this case, stored sugar is being used for fuel instead of fat. There’s nothing wrong with that, just that it causes the class to be a misnomer. It’s really just a case of semantics. Only geeky exercise professionals like me really care.
So, What then?
Really, any type of exercise that elevates your heart rate, increases your metabolism, burns calories, stimulates muscle, etc. is a good thing. Look at the classes offered at your health club or exercise video and do it if it appeals to you.