'aerobics' originates from 'aerobic,' which is derived from the Greek word 'aero,' meaning 'air,' and 'bios,' meaning 'life.'

'aerobic' was adapted into English in the 19th century to describe processes that require oxygen, and 'aerobics' was coined in the 20th century to describe a form of exercise.

Initially, it referred to processes involving oxygen, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a form of exercise.