Which type of exercise is characterized by short bursts of activity lasting less than 3 minutes?

The type of exercise that is characterized by short bursts of activity lasting less than 3 minutes is anaerobic exercise. This form of exercise involves high-intensity activities where the body relies on energy sources stored in the muscles rather than oxygen. Anaerobic exercises typically include activities like sprinting, weightlifting, or other high-intensity interval training (HIIT) that push the body to exert force rapidly.

During anaerobic exercise, the energy systems that are activated do not require oxygen for energy production, which allows for quick bursts of effort, making it possible to achieve maximum effort for short durations. For example, a 100-meter sprint clearly illustrates anaerobic activity, as it requires quick energy output over a duration that generally lasts under 30 seconds.

In contrast, aerobic exercises, such as running or cycling at a steady pace, rely on sustained cardio output and typically last longer than 3 minutes. Strength training involves the use of resistance to build muscle strength and may or may not be anaerobic, depending on the intensity and duration of the exercises. Endurance training focuses on building the body's ability to sustain longer periods of exercise, which is not aligned with the brief, high-intensity nature of anaerobic activities.