Aerobic & Anaerobic Exercise (OCR GCSE Physical Education): Revision Notes

Aerobic & Anaerobic Exercise

Aerobic Exercise:

• Uses oxygen for energy production
• Includes activities that are of a long duration
• Includes activities that are of a moderate intensity
• The heart and lungs can supply all the blood and oxygen to the working muscles to produce energy aerobically

Aerobic Equation:

Glucose + O₂ → CO₂ + H₂O + Heat + Energy

• Glucose and oxygen combine to release energy aerobically
• This process produces carbon dioxide, water and heat (and energy)

Anaerobic Exercise:

• Does not use oxygen for energy production
• Include activities that are of a short duration
• Includes activities that are of a high intensity
• The heart and lungs cannot supply blood and oxygen to muscles fast enough to use so energy is produced anaerobically

Anaerobic Equation:

Glucose → Lactic Acid + Energy

• This causes muscles to become tired and work less efficient
• Lactic acid is produced as a waste product when carbohydrates are broken down without oxygen during anaerobic respiration