Aerobic Vs. Anaerobic Exercise

The most important point of distinction when it comes to aerobic vs anaerobic exercises is that aerobic exercises produce energy with the help of oxygen, whereas anaerobic exercises produce energy without using oxygen. This actually works on the concept similar to aerobic vs anaerobic respiration, wherein aerobic respiration takes place in presence of oxygen, whereas anaerobic respiration takes place in absence of oxygen. Most of us are familiar with aerobic exercises, but not may are aware about the term 'anaerobic exercises'. So before moving on to aerobic vs anaerobic exercises, we need to know the basics of each of them. Read more on aerobic and anaerobic respiration.

Aerobic Exercises
Aerobic exercises are those exercises wherein oxygen is used to produce energy, in order to fuel the body for prolonged activity. These exercises are performed at moderate intensity for longer duration. They tend to improve the overall oxygen consumption of the body and simultaneously boost body metabolism. These exercises include long distance running, cycling etc. Read more on aerobic exercises.

Anaerobic Exercises
Anaerobic exercises, on the other hand, are those exercises wherein the energy requirement of the body exceeds that provided by breathing, and body is forced to work without oxygen. Owing to this lack of oxygen, anaerobic exercises are only performed for short durations. These exercises include activities such as sprinting, power lifting etc. Read more on anaerobic exercise benefits.

Examples of Aerobic and Anaerobic Exercise

Aerobic Exercises	Anaerobic Exercises
Cycling	Dumbbells
Kick Boxing	Pull Ups
Running and Jogging	Push Ups
Jump Rope	Resistance Machines
Swimming	Sprinting
Treadmill	Weight Lifting

Aerobic Vs. Anaerobic Exercise
Oxygen use is not the only point of distinction when it comes to aerobic vs anaerobic workouts. Aerobic exercises are simple, moderate intensity workouts performed for a longer duration. On the other hand, anaerobic exercises are high intensity workouts performed for a short duration of time. On an average, aerobic exercises may last for about 20 minutes, while anaerobic exercises generally last for about 2-3 minutes. As aerobic exercises are performed for a longer duration, the endurance levels required are higher compared to endurance levels for anaerobic exercises. Although both the forms of exercising produce energy through the process of glycolysis, i.e. the conversion of glucose into pyruvate, the substance used to breakdown glucose are different. In case of aerobic exercises, oxygen is used to breakdown glucose, whereas phosphocreatine is used to breakdown glucose in case of anaerobic exercises. Aerobic exercises facilitate proper circulation of blood and oxygen in the body. These exercises help in reducing blood pressure and fat burning. Anaerobic exercises, on the other hand, help in improving strength and muscle mass. They help in enhancing the power, speed, and metabolic rate of the body. The biggest disadvantage of aerobic exercises is that they tend to decrease body mass and strength of an individual.

Aerobic Vs. Anaerobic Weight Loss
Many people have a misconception that aerobic exercises are better than anaerobic exercises when it comes to weight loss. Cardiovascular exercises, such as jogging and skipping, do help in weight loss, but anaerobic exercises have a slight advantage as these exercises burn fat, post work out, even when the body is at rest. More importantly, anaerobic exercises also target at building muscles, and in this process of muscle building, tend to burn significant amount of calories.

This was a brief account of aerobic vs anaerobic exercises, which stressed on several points which you need to take into consideration when it comes to choosing between aerobic and anaerobic exercises. Anaerobic exercises do have a slight edge over aerobic exercises, but that doesn't necessarily mean they would suit you. For instance, a person suffering from backache should ideally chose aerobic exercise, as lifting weights can aggravate the back pain. The best option, therefore, is to consult a fitness expert or your doctor, and go for a proper health check up before you determine which exercise is good for you, aerobic or anaerobic.