Aerobics Classes
Choreographed cardio to music.
How to start
Join a beginner aerobics class: choreographed cardio to music. Keep the movements low-impact if you are new.
How to progress
Add classes and move to higher-intensity routines.
What the evidence says
Evidence: limited
We found no trials of this particular format. A 2026 review of 17 trials (1,881 older adults) found that dance was about as good as other exercise for fitness and quality of life, and better for muscle strength. The trials covered many dance styles and did not separate them. A 2026 review of 22 studies found some favourable effects on memory, attention and mood, mostly in older adults, but many studies had a high risk of bias.
Take care: Choose low-impact options for joint problems. Warm up well.
Sources
12-week starter plan
Two or three classes a week.
Tick each week as you finish it; your ticks are saved on this device only. Repeat a week if it felt hard. Weeks 4, 8 and 12 hold steady so you can settle. This is a general plan, not medical advice.
Add reminders to your calendar
Pick your days and time. You will download a calendar file that adds 12 weeks of reminders to Google, Apple or Outlook calendar.
Calories and weekly minutes
Enter your details for a rough estimate. Based on about 6.5 METs (Typical effort for this activity (estimated)). Real figures vary by 20% or more between people.
Tips and common mistakes
Tips
- Choose low impact first.
- Wear supportive shoes.
- Pace yourself.
Common mistakes
- Overreaching.
- Skipping the warm-up.
- Wearing the wrong shoes.
Kit and cost
Low Approximate UK prices.
- Supportive trainers
- A class (about £5 to £8)
- Water bottle
Frequently asked questions
Is aerobics still good?
Yes, as a way of getting moderate exercise to music.
Is it high impact?
Some are. Choose low-impact classes if you prefer.
How often?
Two or three times a week.
Good for: Heart & fitness Fun & social
Compare with similar options
| Aerobics Classes | Zumba | Step Aerobics | Swing and Lindy Hop | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical session | 45 min × 2/wk | 50 min × 2/wk | 45 min × 2/wk | 60 min × 1/wk |
| Effort | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ |
| Cost | Low cost | Low cost | Low cost | Low cost |
| Equipment | No equipment | No equipment | Basic kit | No equipment |
| Impact | Medium impact | Medium impact | Medium impact | Medium impact |
| Fitness needed | Any level | Any level | Some fitness | Some fitness |
| Evidence | limited | limited | limited | limited |