Aerobic vs Anerobic · Beginners Gym Community

Aerobic vs Anerobic

After checking in with my morning jiu jitsu, I thought I’d talk about something that’s always confused me—just in case it helps anyone else, especially if you’re new to the gym.

I used to wonder about the difference between aerobic and anaerobic exercise and how they both fit into training. Once I figured it out, it really helped me approach things more effectively. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Aerobic Exercise

Aerobic means “with oxygen,” and it’s all about steady, lower-intensity efforts that your body can sustain for longer periods. Think activities like jogging, cycling, or even using the elliptical at the gym.

For beginners, this is where you’ll want to spend time building a solid base. Aerobic exercise improves your stamina and recovery, so whether it’s for a long jiu jitsu roll or just keeping up with your workouts, this is what helps you go the distance.

Anaerobic Exercise

Anaerobic means “without oxygen,” and it’s your go-to for short, intense bursts of effort. In the gym, this could be sprint intervals, heavy lifting, or high-intensity exercises like burpees or kettlebell swings.

It’s not sustainable for long periods, but it’s what you need when you want to develop power, speed, or strength—whether that’s for hitting a personal best on a lift or pulling off a big explosive move in jiu jitsu.

How This Applies to Beginners

For anyone starting out, focus on mixing steady cardio with some strength work and occasional intervals. Aerobic builds endurance, while anaerobic helps with strength and intensity.

Whether you’re aiming to get stronger, fitter, or just feel better on the mats, balancing these two systems will take you far. What’s your focus right now? Let me know—I’d love to hear!

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