An example of an aerobic exercise is:

Appeared in: GMCH - 2016

Explanation

Aerobic exercise involves continuous, rhythmic activities that increase heart rate and oxygen consumption for an extended period.
Jogging slowly for 2 kilometers is a classic example of aerobic exercise, as it is a sustained activity performed at a moderate intensity.
This type of exercise primarily targets cardiovascular endurance, strengthening the heart and lungs by using oxygen to meet energy demands over time.

Option A: Running 100 meters at a fast pace is a sprint, which is a high-intensity, short-duration activity that relies on energy stored in the muscles, not continuous oxygen intake.
Option C: Lifting heavy weights involves short bursts of intense effort to build muscle strength and mass. The energy for this comes from anaerobic pathways.
Option D: The described yoga technique (pranayama) focuses on controlled breathing for relaxation and mindfulness, not on sustained cardiovascular exertion needed for an aerobic effect.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Difference between Aerobic and Anaerobic Exercise as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses often advise patients on lifestyle modifications, including exercise. Understanding the difference between aerobic and anaerobic exercise is crucial for providing appropriate recommendations based on a patient's health goals (e.g., weight loss, cardiovascular health, muscle building).
For patients with conditions like hypertension or Type 2 diabetes, recommending regular aerobic exercise (e.g., 30 minutes of brisk walking or jogging most days) is a key nursing intervention to improve health outcomes.
What if? If a patient's primary goal was to increase bone density and prevent sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss), the nurse would recommend incorporating anaerobic resistance training (like weightlifting) in addition to aerobic exercise.

How to Approach the Question

First, understand the core definition of 'aerobic exercise': it means 'with oxygen' and refers to sustained, moderate-intensity activity that works the cardiovascular system.
Analyze each option against this definition.
Option A (sprinting) is too short and intense, making it anaerobic.
Option C (weightlifting) is about strength, not sustained endurance, making it anaerobic.
Option D (breathing exercise) is about relaxation, not cardiovascular work.
Option B (slow jogging) perfectly matches the definition of a sustained, moderate-intensity activity. Therefore, it is the correct example of aerobic exercise.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Physiology Ganong 27e Vol 2 Part 2 p. 19-21

E6 Physiology Review Sembulingam 5e p. 129-131

Practise the full GMCH - 2016

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.