Metabolism can be defined as the way through which the human body produces and uses the energy. The physiological and chemical processes through which the body produces and burns energy sans oxygen is called anaerobic metabolism.
The muscles of the body, particularly, need energy or glucose to function, during light, moderate and strenuous physical activity. The necessary energy, mostly is generated through aerobic metabolism with the use of oxygen.
But sudden or strenuous physical activity activates anaerobic metabolism to match the sudden demand for energy by the muscles. This metabolism frequently comes into play during sprints, long marathons and heavy weight lifting. The exact point at which aerobic metabolism transforms into anaerobic metabolism differs from person to person depending upon the person being a professional athlete or a number in recreational sports.
Anaerobic Metabolism – Weight Loss
Generally high metabolism helps weight loss, anaerobic metabolism is problematic in that it produces lactic acids in the body leading to rapid breathing and muscle fatigue. Thus you will gasp for breath and be unable to talk.
Therefore any exercise needing anaerobic metabolism should be restricted and should not form the primary content of any fitness routine. Strenuous and sudden bursts of physical exercise strengthens muscles and improves strength and should combine with more modern exercises like cross country skiing, aerobics, brisk walking and dancing.
Precautions for Anaerobic Metabolism
After strenuous sprinting or running give enough time for the body to cool down. It is because the built up lactic acids in the body due to anaerobic metabolism should be discharged. The best way to do is to resort to an activity leading to aerobic metabolism. As a result, after running marathon or sprinting, walk for a few minutes instead of sitting or standing still.
Strenuous physical activity leading to anaerobic metabolism should be avoided by those with heart problems, and the elderly. They should focus on a lower intensity fitness routine like regular walking, recreational swimming, aerobics, cycling, gardening and cross country skiing.