Exercise and fitness often are associated with an increase in your energy level. Unfortunately, that's not so for everyone. When you feel especially tired when exercising, you're bound to wonder what has changed. Because fatigue is a common first trimester symptom of pregnancy, it's understandable that you may associate your exercise fatigue with a major change such as pregnancy. Take stock of your symptoms to see if they match with those of pregnancy. Otherwise, your fatigue may be the result of another condition entirely.
Common Symptoms
Although fatigue often is associated with pregnancy, it likely isn't the only symptom that is present. Pregnancy can cause a variety of symptoms besides fatigue, including nausea, dizziness, backache, swollen breasts that are tender to the touch, frequent urination and even early food cravings. Fatigue is likely not the only symptom of a pregnancy, so when you're tired while working out, assess your condition to see if you might have any other symptoms of pregnancy.
Other Causes
Fatigue while exercising doesn't automatically mean pregnancy, especially when you don't have other symptoms. Your tiredness could stem from overtraining your tired body, a lack of nutrition and hydration, and in some cases, a serious condition such as chronic fatigue syndrome. Assess whether you're tired during one workout or you experience exercise fatigue each time you attempt to exercise and you'll get a general idea as to whether your tiredness is a result of pregnancy, poor lifestyle choices or if it's a serious medical condition.
Treatment
The only way to find out whether or not you're pregnant is to take a pregnancy test after a missed period or 14 days after you've engaged in sexual intercourse. A pregnancy test measures the amount of the hormone HCG in your body to give you a definitive answer. Your doctor can also give you a blood test. If you get a positive test, you may wish switch to lower impact forms of exercise such as yoga and walking.
Those who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome should follow a 3:1 ratio when it comes to exercise and rest. Exercise for one minute and rest for three to conserve your energy while working out.
Prevention
If your exercise fatigue is the result of poor lifestyle choices, prepare your body for a workout properly. Get a good night's sleep before your workout and avoid overworking your body. Eat a small, protein-packed snack ahead of time and stay hydrated throughout your workout.
Experiencing severe fatigue, dizziness and nausea while exercising could be a sign that you're pushing your body too hard or not getting sufficient oxygen to sustain the exercise. Slow down and take time to catch your breath and work up slowly to a more difficult pace.
