You have heard of a "runner's high"; a feeling of elation or euphoria that occurs after an athlete has finished exercising. This sensation can be attributed to a sudden rush of endorphins, chemicals that regulate your mood. The feelings of elation after a run can also be the result of a sudden rush of energy. Exercise can help increase your energy as your body harvests calories from your energy stores to accomplish various types of exercise.
Exercise Effects
A 2008 study published in "Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics" researched the effects that exercise had on individuals who reported feeling tired but who had no other symptoms or medical issues. Over the course of six weeks, three groups of subjects were tested: one group engaged in low intensity exercise, one group engaged in moderate intensity exercise and one did not exercise at all. At the end of the trial, the two groups that exercised reported a 20 percent increase in energy with a 49 to 65 percent decrease in fatigue, while the non-exercising group experienced no such effects. While it may seem as though exercising uses energy stores, it actually helps to harvest and release that energy for a better quality of life.
Prescription for Fitness
Exercise is so highly effective in combating a lack of energy it is often suggested by health care professionals as a way to combat the symptoms of certain health problems. Depression is often accompanied by a morose mood and a lack of energy, both which can be remedied through exercise so long as the symptoms are mild. Since exercise can also help you reduce your weight, the fatigue you may feel as the result of being overweight can also help you see an increase in your energy level.
Reaping the Benefits
To reap the energy-producing benefits of exercise, you simply need to make time in your schedule for daily physical activity. The "Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics" study, headed by Timothy W. Puetz, proves that exercising intensely doesn't necessarily mean better benefits. In fact, those who exercise at a low intensity reported less fatigue overall. By finding your comfort level and using walking, dance, yoga, water aerobics, sports or other types of physical exercise, you'll experience an increase in energy levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise per day.
Medical Issues
While exercise is often included as part of a treatment plan for various conditions, unless approved by your doctor, exercise should not replace prescription drugs and other therapies necessary to treat medical conditions such as depression, anemia, underactive thyroid or sleep disorders, all which can affect your energy levels. If you feel constantly tired, despite the addition of an exercise routine to your schedule, see your doctor for possible causes and potential therapies.
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