Aerobic
Relating to energy production that uses oxygen, powering sustained, lower-intensity activity over minutes to hours.
Definition
Aerobic means with oxygen. The aerobic energy system breaks down carbohydrate and fat in the presence of oxygen to resynthesise ATP, the body's energy currency. It supplies most of the energy for activity lasting longer than a couple of minutes, such as distance running, cycling and swimming, and the recovery between bursts in team sports.
The aerobic system produces energy more slowly than anaerobic pathways but can sustain it for far longer, so it underpins endurance and the ability to repeat efforts. Its capacity is often discussed through markers of aerobic fitness, and it works alongside the anaerobic systems rather than in isolation from them.
Where you’ll hear “aerobic”
Sports that use this term:
Running
The most accessible endurance sport — no venue, just shoes and the open road or trail.
Cycling
A low-impact endurance sport that doubles as transport, exercise and adventure.
Swimming
A full-body, low-impact endurance sport suitable for almost every age and ability.
Football
The world’s most popular team sport — endless running, teamwork and community in one game.
Fitness
Strength and general fitness training — the foundation that supports every other sport.
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People
- Office workersHow sport can offset long hours of sitting and screen time to support mobility, energy and stress relief.
- Shift workersHow sport can fit irregular hours and changing sleep — portable, flexible activity that adapts to a rota rather than a fixed timetable.
- Busy professionalsHow time-efficient sport can fit a packed schedule to protect fitness, energy and stress relief.
- StudentsHow sport can fit around study, a tight budget and a changing timetable to support focus, energy and social life.
Scoring systems
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- Content updated
- 2026-09-01
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