What does anaerobic mean?

Anaerobic refers to processes or exercises that occur in the absence of oxygen. In the context of physical activity, anaerobic exercise involves short bursts of high-intensity efforts where the body relies on energy sources stored in the muscles, rather than utilizing oxygen to generate energy as is done in aerobic exercise. This type of activity is characterized by intervals of high intensity—like sprinting or heavy weightlifting—where the demand for energy surpasses the oxygen supply. Thus, the correct interpretation of anaerobic highlights the lack of oxygen during such activities, distinguishing it from aerobic processes, which require oxygen to sustain longer-duration efforts.