Why give two different types of exercise such similar names? It’s like calling twins Milly and Molly or Jed and Ward. Luckily there is a way to distinguish anaerobic exercise from its longer-lasting aerobic brother.

Anaerobic exercise is the type you can only perform for a very short period of time before you want to puke. Sprinting flat-out for 100m or lifting heavy weights for example.

Anaerobic means ‘without oxygen’ as you use the limited energy supplies stored in your muscles. Anaerobic exercise can help develop stronger muscles, improve your VO2 max,  cardio-respiratory fitness and improve your endurance.