Sometimes when we do heavy exercise, anaerobic respiration takes place in our muscle cells. What is produced during this process?

Glycolysis is the process through which glucose is converted into pyruvate during anaerobic respiration. The waste product of this process is lactic acid, which is produced when pyruvate is transformed. Muscle cells utilise the energy produced during anaerobic respiration to power contraction and movement.

Anaerobic respiration offers a rapid source of energy, but it is less effective than aerobic respiration, which produces energy by using oxygen. Intense exercise is frequently done in brief bursts since prolonged periods of time can cause lactic acid buildup in the muscle cells, which can cause weariness and pain.