Aerobic vs. Anaerobic

Aerobic & Anaerobic = 2 different ways energy is produced  Energy produced aerobically so long as there is enough oxygen supplied to the exercising muscles by the cardiovascular system.  The higher the C.V. system, the longer the body will stay in aerobic mode during your workout.  When your muscles aren’t getting enough oxygen through aerobic, then you get energy anaerobically.  At a low rate of exercise, your muscles get plenty of oxygen. At some point between 50-85% of max. capacity, exercising muscles shift to anaerobic since oxygen is getting scarcer.

The Difference 1. Anaerobic system burns glucose (from carbohydrates), and produces lactic acid which leads to burning and fatigue. 2. Aerobic system burns glucose and fat too. This combination produces energy. The waste product of aerobic exercise is carbon dioxide and water which don’t lead to quick fatigue.

CONCLUSION 1. Aerobic exercise will burn more fat and calories-you can do this for longer periods of time since no lactic acid accumulates. 2. If you suddenly shift into anaerobic mode you will get lactic acid, thus quicker fatigue and small caloric expenditure.

“The Anaerobic Threshold” How will we know when our body shifts into anaerobic?? 1. breathlessness 2. talk, but not sing 3. burning sensation

Achieving Overall Fitness Best way to achieve overall fitness (for general public) is to exercise to the anaerobic threshold, and then slow down and repeat cycle. For older people, exercising at a comfortable aerobic pace is fine.Best way to achieve overall fitness (for general public) is to exercise to the anaerobic threshold, and then slow down and repeat cycle. For older people, exercising at a comfortable aerobic pace is fine. Pro Athletes-college, competitive high school should exercise anaerobically as well.Pro Athletes-college, competitive high school should exercise anaerobically as well.