When it comes to training, whether it is professional sports or general training, there are two main types of activity one can do.
Those two types are namely “anaerobic” and “aerobic” training, each of which provides a different stimulus for the body and thus, a different end result.
In this article, you’re going to learn more about these two types, which one is better for specific goals, and how to combine them.
So without further ado, let’s get to it!
Anaerobic & Aerobic Processes
Though these two terms may sound a bit complex, their meaning is quite simple
The word “Anaerobic” comes from the following Greek words:
- An - Meaning “without”
- Aer - Meaning “air”
- Bios - Meaning “life”
In simple words, all anaerobic processes in the body do not require oxygen to run.
Oppositely, all aerobic processes in the body DO require oxygen to function.
Examples Of Anaerobic Activities
Anaerobic training activities are basically any type of training which requires you to do a short, power-burst bout.
Here are some examples of anaerobic training activities:
- Sprinting
- Weightlifting
- Climbing
- Broad jumping
Because of the nature of anaerobic activities (short, power-burst movements), this type of training mainly develops muscle strength, size, strength endurance and explosiveness.
Examples Of Aerobic Activities
Contrary to anaerobic activities, we have aerobic activities, which are basically any low-intensity exercises that are long in duration.
Here are examples of aerobic activities:
- Jogging
- Skipping rope
- Swimming
- Cycling
Unlike anaerobic activities, aerobic training mainly develops the cardiovascular & respiratory systems (heart & lungs).
With this type of training, your body becomes more efficient at releasing energy with the help of oxygen.
Which Type Of Training Is Better?
As we already established, anaerobic training will stimulate the development of your musculature and its main properties - Strength, strength endurance & explosiveness.
On the other hand, with aerobic training you will improve the work of your heart and lungs.
And so, the answer to the question “which type of training is better?” is quite simple… It depends on the context!
Are you someone who wants to look better? Focus your training around anaerobic activities and throw in some aerobic activities here and there.
Or, if you’re someone who just looks to improve their endurance in the long run, focus on aerobic activities that are low in intensity and long in duration.
Ultimately, if you’re not a professional athlete, you would be best off combining both types of training and tipping the scales in favor of the one that matches your goals the most.
Conclusion
Though most people just LOVE to compare different types of training and dub some “better than others”, one thing remains true…
That is namely the fact that the body is a complex machine, capable of a MULTITUDE of movements.
The more movements you do and the more you engage in different types of activities, the more you develop the systems and components (muscles) that make those activities possible.
Therefore, this approach will lead to a functionally and visually better physique.
What is YOUR approach to training? Comment down below!