from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Aerobics \Aer*o"bics\, n. pl., but sing. or pl. in usage
1. physical exercises performed in a sustained and strenuous
fashion designed to cause a temporary increase in
respiration rate and heart rate, such a running, swimming,
walking, or calisthenics. Calisthenic sessions in groups,
performed by following a leader in moving to a rhythmic
musical accompaniment, are a popular form of aerobics.
[PJC.]
2. a system of physical conditioning relying largely on
aerobics exercises.
[PJC.]