Which options are benefits of anaerobic training?
Select all that apply.
lowers cholesterol
increases insulin response
increases VO2 max
increases flexibility
To determine which options are benefits of anaerobic training, let's break down each option and assess its relevance to anaerobic exercise:
1. Lowers cholesterol: Anaerobic training primarily focuses on intense, short bursts of activity, such as weightlifting or sprinting. While aerobic exercise is more directly associated with cholesterol reduction, studies have shown that anaerobic exercise can have a positive impact on overall cardiovascular health. However, the primary benefit of anaerobic training is not specifically lowering cholesterol. Therefore, this option is not one of the benefits of anaerobic training.
2. Increases insulin response: Anaerobic exercise, especially high-intensity interval training (HIIT), has been found to enhance insulin sensitivity. During anaerobic activity, the body relies on glucose as its primary source of fuel. This increased demand for energy improves insulin sensitivity, potentially leading to better blood sugar control and reduced risk of diabetes. Hence, increasing insulin response is indeed a benefit of anaerobic training.
3. Increases VO2 max: VO2 max refers to the maximum amount of oxygen your body can utilize during intense exercise. While aerobic exercise is renowned for improving VO2 max, anaerobic workouts that combine high-intensity intervals with brief recovery periods are also effective at boosting this measure. The body adapts to the demanding nature of anaerobic activity by becoming more efficient at utilizing oxygen, resulting in an increase in VO2 max. Thus, anaerobic training can indeed increase VO2 max.
4. Increases flexibility: Flexibility primarily relates to a person's range of motion and the ability to stretch their muscles and joints. While anaerobic training is not inherently focused on flexibility, certain exercises within an anaerobic regimen can help improve it indirectly. For example, incorporating dynamic stretching or specific mobility exercises alongside anaerobic workouts can enhance flexibility. However, flexibility is not a direct benefit of anaerobic training itself.
Based on the explanations provided above, the options that can be considered benefits of anaerobic training are:
- Increases insulin response
- Increases VO2 max