What is an example of aerobic exercise?

Aerobic exercise is characterized by activities that increase your heart rate and promote increased circulation and respiration over an extended period. Running is a quintessential example of aerobic exercise because it engages large muscle groups, is sustained for a longer duration, and significantly elevates heart and breathing rates. This type of exercise utilizes oxygen to generate energy for prolonged activity, improving cardiovascular endurance and overall fitness.

In contrast, the other activities listed do not fit the criteria for aerobic exercise. Weightlifting primarily involves short bursts of intense effort that do not sustain increased heart rates over time in the same manner as running does. Sprinting, while it can elevate heart rates, is typically a high-intensity anaerobic activity that is not sustained over long periods. Yoga, although beneficial for flexibility and strength, generally focuses more on breathing and holding poses rather than raising the heart rate significantly, which is a hallmark of aerobic exercise.