The Effectiveness of Aerobic Gymnastics Means in Preventing and Fighting Obesity

Abstract

Aerobic gymnastics represents a system of physical exercises, applied analytically or globally, which influences selectively and commutatively the musculoskeletal system, aiming to perfect and harmonize the movements of the human body. The means of this gymnastic discipline contribute to the formation of a correct posture, to the improvement of one's fitness and health, and is also an effective method for preventing and fighting obesity. Starting from this premise, this research aimed to study the probable effects aerobic gymnastics can have on the body, in preventing the installment of various diseases, existing as an alternative to a healthy lifestyle. The main goal of the research was to identify the effects aerobic gymnastics has in preventing and fighting obesity. This research was conducted on 205 subjects between 18 and 35 years old, who participated in aerobic gymnastics fitness-type lessons, three times a week. The programs comprised exercises of physical development, stretching and elasticity, relaxation, coordination, and not in the least, muscle strengthening. In order to assess the effectiveness of the applied means we used somatic-functional measurements: height, weight, abdominal perimeter from standing, abdominal perimeter from supine position, thoracic perimeter, thoracic perimeter during inspiration, thoracic perimeter during expiration, hip perimeter, right arm perimeter, and left arm perimeter. After the measurements, we calculated the body mass index (BMI), the Erissman index, and the abdominal muscle tone index. The research data highlight the subjects' interest in their physical appearance through a dynamic activity, constituting an argument for the practice of aerobic gymnastics throughout one's entire life, as a means to preserve one's youth and beauty.