If You Had to Choose How to Burn Fat. . .

Avondale Kendja

In any physical activity, the human body breaks down sugars, specifically glucose, for energy. At times, it uses oxygen in a complex chemical process called cellular respiration; but at other times, it forgoes the oxygen. Two types of exercises then emerge from the two kinds of processes: aerobic and anaerobic exercises. Each comes with their own risks and advantages, and after a thorough, personal consideration, they can be beneficial to your overall health.

With aerobic exercises, energy is created when oxygen becomes part of the equation. The breathing and heart rate are increased as the set continues, in turn, critical for the amount of oxygen that gets to the muscles for even more oxygen. The exercises also use energy made from carbs, proteins, and fats that the body stores as well as the oxygen breathed to make even more energy for the muscles. Aerobic activities can be sustained for long periods of time depending on your exercise intensity, the surroundings, the body's present condition, etc. Some include:

running
cycling
swimming
jumping rope

An anaerobic activity is the opposite, as it uses energy from the muscles themselves by just using glucose. Oxygen absorption and transportation aren’t involved and lactic acid builds up without them. Energy’s made quickly and when one works at the activity enough, the body can eliminate lactic acid quicker. They can’t be sustained for long, only occurring in short bursts. Examples include:

heavy weight lifting
calisthenics: jump squats, box jumps
sprinting (as you run, cycle, or swim)

In other words, aerobic exercises are endurance-based, while anaerobic are strength-based or conditioning-based. As for each of the activities’ advantages and disadvantages….

Aerobic
Benefits

decreases risk of heart disease
lowers blood pressure
increases HDL or "good" cholesterol
better control blood sugar
assists in weight management and/or weight loss.
improves lung function

Risks (Too Much of a Good Thing)

mood swings or irritability.
trouble sleeping.
sore muscles or heavy limbs
overuse injuries

Anaerobic
Benefits

strengthens bone and increases their density
boosts metabolism
protects joints
burns fat
builds muscle
increases stamina
Helps to control lactic acid build up

Risks (Likewise)

mood swings or irritability.
trouble sleeping.
sore muscles or heavy limbs
overuse injuries

Like with any new or drastic change, it’s good to see your doctor and consult them with your fitness plans and goals so that you will be able to create a regiment catered to your current level.