On This Page


Aerobics and fitness classes involve the movement of large muscle groups in continuous rhythmic activity to music. There are more than a dozen aerobic dance hybrids, many of which are extensions or combinations of high and low impact. Aerobics is associated with a significant number of sports injuries.

Injuries generally fall into two groups: – these occur as a result of a fall, twist or similar accident and most often involve the ankle or knee. – these usually develop gradually, often as a result of a change in the amount or intensity of aerobics, or due to a training error. Shin pain is the most common overuse injury, while foot and knee overuse injuries are also common.

Back injuries may also be caused, or aggravated by, aerobic exercise.

To prevent injury you should: know yourself and the sport. Remember to: Warm up, stretch and cool down. Consult your doctor for a heart and lung assessment before starting an aerobics program if you are aged over 40.

Have a musculoskeletal assessment performed by a sports medicine professional before commencing aerobics if you have suffered an injury in the past. Start your class at a moderate pace, to allow you to warm up adequately.

Good technique and practices can help prevent injuries

Suggestions include:

  • Use the good technique emphasised by your instructors. Start all aerobics sessions with a gentle warm-up
  • stretching. All beginners’ classes should have a second instructor available to move among the group
  • correct any faults

This is also important when learning new techniques

Seek advice from your instructor about how to improve or correct your technique if you have injuries that may be related to poor technique. Make sure you: Wear footwear specifically designed for aerobics. Good fit, stability, secure lacing and good forefoot cushioning are important features of an aerobics shoe.

Choose clothing that fits well and has good moisture transfer properties.

Consider a sports bra to improve comfort

Individual fit is very important

Choosing an appropriate venue is important

It’s a good idea to: Make sure aerobics areas are well lit. Check that the temperature in the aerobics area is maintained at a moderate level, with good ventilation.

Use facilities with a floor suited to aerobics

Sprung wooden floors or padded carpet over concrete are best. Check that all implements and equipment used in classes are maintained in good condition. Make sure cool, fresh water is readily available.

Check that the music is clear and at a comfortable volume. Suggestions include: Choose activities that are suited to your fitness level.

Know and use the right techniques

Know how to use the equipment properly and safely.

If you or someone else is injured: Seek prompt attention from qualified first aid personnel. First aid facilities should be available at all fitness centres.

Get prompt attention for all traumatic injuries

Have injuries that do not respond quickly to first aid measures assessed by a sports medicine professional, preferably a doctor, to ensure an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Don’t wait until pain is severe. Overuse injuries, especially to the shin, are common in aerobics.

They often cause only mild discomfort at first, but frequently get worse. They can be caused by many factors and an early full assessment is important for recovery. Common aerobics injuries Traumatic injuries Overuse injuries Preventing aerobics injuries be prepared use good technique and practices wear the right gear check the environment Prepare for aerobics Use good technique and practices during aerobics Wear the right gear Check the environment Choose a class run by instructors who are registered with Kinect United States or AUSactive Know yourself and aerobics techniques Respond promptly to aerobics injuries Where to get help Your doctor Always call triple zero for an ambulance in an emergency Tel.

000 Sports physician Physiotherapist American Physiotherapy Association Tel. (616) 555-0200 Smartplay Tel. (616) 555-8777 Exercise physiologist.

Key Points

  • Shin pain is the most common overuse injury, while foot and knee overuse injuries are also common
  • Back injuries may also be caused, or aggravated by, aerobic exercise
  • To prevent injury you should: know yourself and the sport
  • Good technique and practices can help prevent injuries
  • also important when learning new techniques