Exercise When Tired for EnergyEveryone I talk to seems tired these days. To many people, the idea of
exercising when tired just seems beyond them. They just don't have the
energy. Well, I have some good news: A study showed that low levels of
exercise can boost energy levels by 20% and decrease fatigue by 65%.
This is fantastic.
Low Intensity Exercise Brings More EnergyIn the study, 36
people who were not regular exercisers and who reported being tired all
the time were divided into three groups. One group did 20 minutes of
moderate exercise three times a week for six weeks, the second group
did low-intensity exercise for the same amount of time and the third
group did not exercise any more than before. Both exercise groups had a
20% increase in energy levels after six weeks. The extra good news was
that the researchers found the low-intensity group reported a higher
reduction in fatigue than the group working out at a moderate level. In
fact, the low-intensity group reported a 65% drop in fatigue compared
to a 49% drop in the moderate group while the no-exercise group just
stayed the same.
How to Exercise for Energy
So getting out for just 20 minutes three times a week can really raise your energy level. Try walking,
running, or really anything that just gets you moving. In the study,
the low-intensity group rode an exercise bike for 20 minutes at the
same level of intensity as a leisurely stroll. Exercise More for Overall Better Health
Keep in mind, however, that this study only looks at the fatigue and
energy creation benefits of exercise. Other studies suggest that more
intense exercising could have important longevity and health benefits.
But if you are a not in the habit of exercising, focus on a
low-intensity workout for the first 6 weeks. That should give you the
energy you need to rev things up a notch.
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