"I'm exhausted" "I'm beat" "I'm spent".... How many times do you hear yourself or others comments about being tired? Lots?
Well, today I'm here to help you fight fatigue with fitness. "Right!" you might think, "the last think I want to do is move!"
However, research shows that regular, low-intensity exercise may help boost energy levels in people suffering from fatigue.
“Too often we believe that a quick workout will leave us worn out — especially when we are already feeling fatigued,” said researcher Tim Puetz of the University of Georgia.
“However, we have shown that regular exercise can actually go a long way in increasing feelings of energy — particularly in sedentary individuals.”
Why exercise helps fatigue isn’t clear, but Dr. Puetz said his findings suggest exercise acts directly on the central nervous system to increase energy and reduce fatigue.
Notably, the improvements in energy and fatigue were not related to increases in aerobic fitness. Lower intensity workouts, like a leisurely walk or slow bike ride helped counteract fatigue and delivers a boost to energy.
“A lot of people are overworked and not sleeping enough,” said Patrick O’Connor, co-director of the university’s exercise psychology laboratory, in the release.
“Exercise is a way for people to feel more energetic. There’s a scientific basis for it, and there are advantages to it compared to things like caffeine and energy drinks.”
So, ditch the java and sugary snacks and move a bit. Bet you'll find your fatigue takes a back seat to your new, energetic life.
Need a partner to get moving with? Give me a yell- I've got my sneakers at the ready.