North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

What is the fuel source for anaerobic exercise?

1. Fats

2. Carbohydrates

3. Proteins

4. Water

The correct answer is: Carbohydrates

The fuel source for anaerobic exercise is primarily carbohydrates. During intense physical activities, such as sprinting or heavy lifting, the body requires immediate energy. Anaerobic exercise relies on short bursts of energy where oxygen availability is limited. In these situations, the body utilizes stored carbohydrates in the form of glycogen, which is found in muscles and the liver. When engaging in anaerobic exercise, the body breaks down glycogen through a process called glycolysis, leading to the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cells, without the need for oxygen. This pathway is crucial during high-intensity efforts where oxygen cannot be delivered quickly enough to meet energy demands. In contrast, fats and proteins serve different roles in energy metabolism, particularly during lower-intensity or longer-duration activities where aerobic pathways predominate. Water, while essential for overall hydration and physiological processes, does not serve as a direct fuel source in energy production. Thus, carbohydrates are the primary fuel source for anaerobic exercise due to their rapid availability and ability to provide the necessary energy for high-intensity activities.