What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic?
The difference between aerobic and anaerobic is the presence of oxygen. An aerobic organism or process requires oxygen. An anerobic organism does not require oxygen. An obligate anaerobe cannot survive in the presence of oxygen. An example of an obligate anaerobe is the bacteria that causes gangrene. That is why gangrene only occurs when there is loss of circulation, and therefore no oxygen, in tissues of the body.
In reference to exercise, aerobic exercise requires continued reserves of oxygen. Oxygen is required to manufacture energy in the cells. If you run out of oxygen in the cells as they exercise they switch to an anaerobic energy production which has lactic acid as a waste product. Lactic acid build up in the cells is what causes you to be sore after exercising. Cardio building exercise is generally called aerobic exercise because cardio building requires extended periods of exercise. Exercise such as weight training which is done in bursts of a few minutes at a time usually does not exercise the heart enough to cause long term cardiac benefit.
Aerobic literally means “with oxygen”. That is, exercising while the body uses oxygen to keep it going. Examples include walking, jogging, cycling, stepping. Anaerobic activities, where the energy used is made without oxygen, are high intensity, short bursts and can only be done for 15-60 seconds. Examples of anaerobic activities include sprinting and weight training. Athletes, like runners, tend to benefit from both types of training since their sport usually requires the anaerobic (the start and finish of a race) and aerobic systems. Q: I have all this flab on my body. How can I get rid of this? A: Remember, there is no way to spot reduce. Such changes come about as result of a cardio workout, engaging in weight training, and adhering to a sound diet. Consult your physician before beginning an exercise program. These activities may help you reach your goals and allow you to burn fat from all of your body. Remember there may be many factors in the equation here, so consider consulting
