Anaerobic Exercise & Cholesterol

Anaerobic exercise and exercise to reduce cholesterol can very easily go hand in hand. The American College of Sports Medicine defines anaerobic exercise as exercise intense enough to trigger anaerobic metabolism, like sprinting while running or cycling. The ACSM defines anaerobic metabolism, meanwhile, as the creation of energy in the absence of oxygen through the breakdown of glucose. According to the University of New Mexico Exercise Science Department, one must exercise at a high intensity for the exercise itself to be effective in reducing cholesterol. While anaerobic exercise alone will not necessarily reduce cholesterol, implementing intervals within an aerobic workout may be beneficial.

Anaerobic Exercise

The result of anaerobic metabolism is the buildup of lactic acid --- which causes the burning sensation we often feel in the muscles during exercise. Athletes use anaerobic exercise to improve performance by gradually nudging the body's ability to metabolize lactic acid. However, anaerobic exercise is not only available to athletes. But virtually anyone can incorporate anaerobic intervals into their workouts to improve performance, endurance, strength and even reduce cholesterol.

Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fat-like matter produced by the body, the University of New Mexico researchers explain; it serves many important functions, including maintaining cell integrity and producing vitamin D. While cholesterol is vital to the health of the body, too much can lead to serious problems, such as heart disease and stroke.

As previously mentioned, you must undertake intense exercise to actually reduce cholesterol. Exercise helps to move low-density lipoprotein --- the "bad" cholesterol --- from the blood stream and effectively eliminatie it from the body. Exercises which may help to reduce cholesterol include brisk walking, jogging and cycling.

Anaerobic Exercise to Reduce Cholesterol

One way to reduce cholesterol through anaerobic exercise is simply by incorporating it into a broader workout --- integrating intervals of sprints into a steady aerobic exercise. For example, during a steady jog, incorporate 30 seconds of an intense sprint followed by one minute of "rest" --- returning to your steady pace.

Caution

Anaerobic exercise and any other type of exercise which would aid in reducing cholesterol require intense effort --- so reduce the possibility of injury by adequately warming up and cooling down. To optimize results, consult a trained fitness professional to tailor a workout specific to your personal needs and goals. Before beginning any new fitness regimen, consult your doctor.