Which of the following statements about anaerobic exercise is true?

The statement regarding anaerobic exercise that is true is that it produces lactic acid due to rapid depletion of oxygen. Anaerobic exercise occurs when the body engages in activities that are high in intensity and have a short duration, leading to a high demand for energy that cannot be met solely by aerobic metabolic pathways.

When the oxygen supply is insufficient for the energy demands of the muscles, the body resorts to anaerobic metabolism, which breaks down glucose without the need for oxygen. This process leads to the accumulation of lactic acid as a byproduct. This is why completion of intense bursts of effort, like sprinting or heavy lifting, can lead to feelings of fatigue and soreness; the lactic acid builds up in the muscles.

In contrast, anaerobic exercise is not characterized by prolonged, low-intensity activities, nor does it primarily rely on oxygen for energy production as the aerobic pathways do. Additionally, anaerobic exercise is not optimal for building long-distance endurance, which is generally developed through aerobic workouts that use oxygen efficiently over more extended periods.