Now that I’ve reached my mid 40’s, it’s become more important than ever to find aerobic exercise that’s low in impact. Years ago, 4 mile runs and high intensity step aerobic classes were the norm, but those days are long gone. Recently, I’ve come to appreciate the benefits of indoor cycling and spinning classes.

One major benefit I’ve noticed after adding indoor cycling to my workout regimen has been an increased energy level. If you’ve ever gotten drowsy at your desk mid afternoon, you know exactly what I mean. Another significant benefit has been decreased tension and much more restful sleep. And yet, it wasn’t easy to consistently commit to these classes. In fact, I almost quit just after I started.

If you’re just getting back into working out aerobically after a long layoff, you’ll need to reacclimate. A key element is a concept called aerobic base building, which basically means establishing a base level of aerobic fitness. Just as it’s important to build a solid foundation for your house, it’s equally important for your fitness level.

Three Steps To Build Your Base

There are considerations you’ll need to accept as you build your aerobic base. With indoor cycling, you’ll typically have display monitors telling you how hard and how long you’re working, which is quite helpful. The same is true with spinning classes, as most instructors provide specific instructions during the class to monitor exertion level. Here are the three factors explained:

Step One: Know Your Target Heart Rate

First, you’ll need to know your target heart rate. Your target heart rate is a range that’s 65% to 80% of your maximum heart rate. Determining your maximum heart rate is easy — just subtract your age from 220. Then, multiply that rate by 65% to get the lower end of your target rate, and by 80% to get the upper end. As an example, a 50 year old would have a maximum heart rate of 170. 65% of 170 is 111, and 80% of 170 is 136. That means a 50 year old should strive to pedal at an exertion level that makes their heart beat between 111 and 136 times per minute.

Step Two: Give It Time

Expect to build your aerobic base over a 6 to 8 week time frame, possibly longer if you’ve been inactive for a while. Plan to gradually challenge yourself so you can maintain your target heart rate for a longer period of time. Remember, the longer you work out at your target zone, the more fat you’ll burn.

Step Three: Increase Your Endurance And Intensity

Once you’ve built your aerobic base and know your target heart rate, don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Add to the length of time you work out, and push yourself a bit harder. You’ll find as you become more fit, you’ll need to challenge yourself to reach your target heart rate. That’s good, because it means your heart is healthier, you’ve attained increased cardiac output, and you’re more fit overall.

The benefits you’ll realize from any aerobic activity are numerous, and they’ll impact your life in a very positive way. If you’re concerned about high impact activities like jogging or stair climbing, add a spinning class to your workout. It’s low impact, effective, and enjoyable!