In 2007, researchers at the University of Georgia looked at the relationship between exercise and exhaustion. They studied 36 healthy young adults who experienced fatigue on a regular basis. The results suggested that exercise can help reduce fatigue. At the beginning, you might actually feel more tired after a short workout. If you stick to it, however, your body will get stronger over a period of a few weeks. Exercise also can help relieve depression and its associated feelings of fatigue.
Step 1
Walk for 15 minutes every day. Don't run or aim for hourlong workouts at first. If you're already exhausted, intense exercise can make you feel worse. You'll have to build up the exercise time and intensity over time.
Step 2
Exercise at least three times a week. Stay consistent, as it might take up to 10 weeks before you see improvements.
Step 3
Choose activities that are rhythmic. These are aerobic activities that are constant, without ups and downs of intensity. Examples include swimming, walking and biking. Pick an activity you like, so you will enjoy the workout and it won't feel like a chore.
Step 4
Add stretching, relaxing activities such as yoga or tai chi. This will help elongate your muscles, so you don't end up sore and feeling even more tired. Add one or two stretching workouts to your week, on top of the aerobic program you start.
Tips and Warnings
- Always check with your doctor if you're experiencing exhaustion for no apparent reason. Fatigue can be a sign of another underlying health issue.
References
- "Psychiatria Polska"; Effects of Exercise on Anxiety, Depression and Mood; Guszkowska M.; July-August 2004
- "Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics"; A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effect of Aerobic Exercise Training on Feelings of Energy and Fatigue; Timothy W. Puetz et al.; 2008
- Better Health Channel: Fatigue Fighting Tips
