Feb 5, 2024The differences between aerobic & anaerobic exercise
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the American College of Sports Medicine, and the U.S. Department of Health all recommend at least 30 minutes of exercise five days a week for anyone between the ages of 18 and 65.
To achieve this goal there are two broad types of exercise; aerobic and anaerobic exercise.
A recent article from Parkview Sports Medicine details the differences between aerobic and anaerobic exercise.
Below is an excerpt from the Parkview Sports Medicine article.
Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Exercise
Without getting too deep into the physiology between these two types of exercise, the main difference between aerobic and anaerobic exercise is how our bodies use energy during these activities.
- In aerobic exercise, our bodies create and use energy from oxygen.
- In anaerobic exercise, our bodies create and use energy from glucose in our muscles.
- Aerobic exercises tend to be of longer duration and lower intensity such as running long distances, playing a sport, or biking.
- Anaerobic exercises are shorter-duration movements done at a high intensity like sprinting, lifting weights, or interval circuits.
Benefits of Exercise
Both aerobic and anaerobic exercise have tremendous benefits for your overall health and fitness, regardless of age, level of fitness, or previous experience with exercise. However, each form of exercise has its proper place and benefits.
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