The Difference Between Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Exercise - Is One Better for Weight Loss?

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Have you ever wondered about the difference between aerobic and anaerobic exercise? What are the main distinctions, what are the different benefits, and what should you use more of for something like fat loss? Well, in this video we’re going to cover all that along with some actual exercise examples within each to help you answer the question which is better for you right now. Enjoy!

Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Exercise Differences Overview (0:29)

Before we look at any specific benefits, we need to first have a general understanding of what each is. Aerobic translates to ‘with oxygen’, meaning any exercise within this category can be sufficiently fueled by breathing alone. As a good rule of thumb, if you can talk while doing an exercise, it’s generally aerobic.

Here’s a great heart rate calculator to determine your aerobic heart rate:

On the flip side, anaerobic means without oxygen. These are higher intensity exercises like lifting, circuit training, and anything where regular breathing alone is not enough to fuel the exercise.

What are the Different Fuel Sources Between Aerobic & Anaerobic? (2:20)

So what does this basic distinction mean for the benefits of each?. Well, during aerobic exercise, your body primarily draws from fat along with carbs to fuel movement. But when we kick into anaerobic exercise, our body can no longer burn fat for sufficient energy and looks more towards carbs, amino acids, and even lactate acid.

What are the Benefits of Each (3:20)

Now, this doesn’t mean that anaerobic exercise does not burn fat. Even though it doesn’t burn fat off as a primary source of energy, as you’ll discover, it has some long-term fat-burning benefits that are great for weight loss.

How to Pick Between the Two: Aerobic vs. Anaerobic (4:18)

So when it comes down to it, both types of exercise can have amazing benefits for any area of fitness. So the question really comes down to what is going to work better for your personality and schedule? Do you gravitate more towards shorter, high-intensity exercise or are you a fan of taking longer walks/hikes? That being said, there are some specific benefits to each that we’ll cover more in this video.

The General Overview (6:03)

Your friends here at the FFP,

-Dr. Balduzzi + The Men's Health Experts @ The Fit Father Project

**Disclaimer: This information is for reference purposes ONLY and cannot replace personal information you can and should discuss with your Doctor. If you have any concerns about your health, you should see your Doctor immediately. Results vary by individual, so we do not guarantee you will get the same results as any shown here or on our website.

[HooglesonInc]

I've never heard of Anaerobic Exercise. I've been hitting the gym for almost a year now and I constantly learn new things!

[garyyoung]

As a triathlete for 15 years I can can always learn something new! Thank you!

[jayreszy]

Excellent explanation! Will help me make adjustments. Thanks.

[stjmw]

Didn't even know there was even a difference between the two, see this is why I love your channel I always learn something new. Thanks for explaining, this is gonna help a lot with deciding which exercises to focus on.

[nicolemartin]

Thanks for this helpful video! I've always been confused about the difference between aerobic and anaerobic, and this is the first time I actually understand the concept! I like to do both types of exercise so I'm glad Dr. B pointed out that both are good for us. thanks!

[flopcorn]

Thank you, for explaining this with simplicity. Much appreciated. Google definitely didn't help in explaining it like this.

[bowlampar]

Very clear explanation on words both seemingly look alike but have different meaning, now i know the differences without any doubt.

[shanellbryant]

Thank you for showing me breaking down the role of aerobic and anaerobic exercise when breaking down unwanted fat.

[mairamaha]

Thank you so much for making this video, I learn many things from this video❣

[blackcatbellydancestudio]

Thank you! Finally found a clear and practical answer for this.

[neelswolmarans]

Awesome explanation, love it, now I can work a schedule to incorporate both aerobic and Anaerobic session

[maxwellschmidt]

I think it's very important to remember that the aerobic system doesn't stop just because you entered the anaerobic zone. My philosophy is to enter anaerobic exercise at least 3 times per week, with the goal of increasing my desire to move aerobically.

It's very important to do both. When I started my fitness journey, it was being mindful of my walking in a day. Waking up the aerobic energy system. But I wouldn't have gotten far without going into the anaerobic zone soon thereafter to push the limits of the aerobic system- that's where endurance grows, and it boosts your body's chemical ability to burn fat with movement.

Great video, just giving my two cents on its value.

[amandaestremera]

Not a dad but dang this is so great. You are explaining complex subjects in such an easy way to understand without dumbing down or using crazy scientific jargon. Thank you!!!

[aqsadiba]

Thanks a lot, it's really very helpful video.. May Allah bless you.

[jj]

This is such a great comparison. I like the points you make. I still prefer anaerobic exercise myself

[jmax]

Studying for my ACE PT exam. Thank you!

[jamesfallon]

Was curious about this and you answered all the questions I had, thanks for sharing this!

[ricecakepower]

thanks i was so confused google didnt make this basic enough for a newbiee like me so thanks for explaining this so easily :) now i know im doing things right too woo!

[jpiard]

performing a ratio of Aerobic\Anaerobic exercises is something I feel is a lot better than either or, this chart proves that. I'm currently at an 20/80.

[OfficiallyUnofficialKamala]

This video is so informative! Thank you so much for posting it!