Which type of exercise is primarily anaerobic?

Sprinting is considered primarily anaerobic exercise because it involves short bursts of high-intensity effort that exceed the body’s ability to supply oxygen quickly enough for sustained energy production. During sprinting, the body relies on energy sources stored in the muscles, specifically adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and creatine phosphate, to fuel the activity. This anaerobic process allows for rapid energy production but can generally be sustained only for a limited period due to the accumulation of lactic acid and depletion of energy stores.

In contrast, long-distance running is predominantly aerobic, utilizing oxygen to produce energy over extended periods. Yoga and Pilates emphasize flexibility, balance, and core strength through lower-intensity movements, which also rely more on aerobic metabolism. Therefore, among the exercise types listed, sprinting is the clearest example of primarily anaerobic exercise.