What are the primary fuels for the aerobic system?

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The primary fuels for the aerobic system are carbohydrates (CHO), fats, and proteins. This system operates in the presence of oxygen and is crucial for longer-duration, lower-intensity activities, where it efficiently generates energy over an extended period.

Carbohydrates are the body's preferred source of energy during both moderate and high-intensity activities, while fats become the dominant fuel source during prolonged, lower-intensity exercise. Proteins can also provide energy but are typically utilized in smaller amounts, mainly when carbohydrate availability is limited or during prolonged endurance events.

The aerobic system's ability to utilize these three types of fuel allows for a more sustained energy output compared to anaerobic pathways, which rely primarily on ATP and phosphocreatine (PCr) for short bursts of activity. This distinction highlights the versatility and efficiency of the aerobic system in supporting various physical activities across different intensities and durations.

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