Aerobic Vs Anaerobic Exercise

People are generally more familiar with aerobic exercises

than with anaerobic.What is the difference between the two Simply put,aerobic exercise is a low to moderate intensity activity sustained for a long duration,while anaerobic is a high-intensity exercise done for a short duration.In any aerobic activity,oxygen is required to keep muscles in motion.Aerobic exercises include activities that are continuous and of low to moderate intensity,like jogging,swimming,cycling and walking.

Basic difference:

Aerobic means with oxygen,and anaerobic means without oxygen.In anaerobic exercise,muscles make use of glycogen from carbohydrates.When glycogen is burned in the absence of oxygen,it gives off an end product called lactic acid,which causes muscle fatigue.That is why anaerobic exercise is limited to short durations and includes activities like sprinting and weightlifting.



Workout benefits:

We all know the benefits of aerobic or cardio exercise;how it improves fitness,reduces risk of lifestyle diseases and how it helps in weight management.Anaerobic exercise benefits are also many.It makes your muscles stronger and helps decrease body fat.A strength training routine helps build muscle mass and increases bone density.It has also been shown to boost metabolism,leading to more calorie burn.Anaerobic training also helps improve your aerobic capacity.

Do both forms:

Both these forms of exercise have their advantages.It is necessary to incorporate both in a workout.For abeginner,it is important to have a good aerobic base before going on to high-intensity anaerobic training.A beginner should start with low-intensity aerobic exercise for a few weeks,build on his fitness level and then attempt high-intensity anaerobic exercise.But continue to include aerobic exercises in your regimen as they have important benefits,while an excess of anaerobic training can lead to burnout.Aerobic activity is generally suitable for all age groups.But anaerobic training is not recommended for the elderly,and for pregnant women and people with heart ailments,asthma,hypertension,diabetes and obesity.Consult a doctor before starting any high-intensity exercise programme and exercise always under trained instructors.Warm-up and cool-down are important.Increase your workouts intensity gradually.