Whether you're first starting an exercise program or you've always been athletic, feeling tired isn't necessarily a cause for concern. When you exercise, your body expends energy, and this loss of energy might make you feel tired, especially if you haven't eaten properly or you're exercising more than usual. As you build up your endurance, exercise becomes easier and more enjoyable -- it could even give you more energy. Talk to your doctor before you make any changes in your diet or exercise program.
Dietary Considerations
When you exercise, your body uses the calories you have consumed during the day for energy. If you have consumed junk food, refined carbohydrates such as white bread, and sugar, these calories will be used quickly, leaving you feeling exhausted in the middle of your workout. Instead, eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein and whole grains for every meal. Eat a small snack that contains fast-acting carbohydrates, like a piece of whole-grain toast, plus a source of protein, such as yogurt or a slice of turkey breast, for long-lasting energy. After the workout, refuel your body within an hour to replace the glycogen stores in your body and boost your energy.
Building Endurance
If you're new to exercise, feeling exhausted after a short workout is completely normal. As you exercise more and more, your muscles and joints strengthen, making exercise less tiring and painful. If you'd like to run, but you get winded after a short walk, start slow. Jog for 30 seconds to a minute, then walk for a few minutes. Gradually increase more and more running into your routine, until you are running for the entire workout. Increase the distance you run, until you are capable of running as long as you desire.
Lack of Sleep
Exercising is used as a treatment for fatigue, and is thought to affect the central nervous system and provide a burst of energy, according to "The New York Times" article "The Cure for Exhaustion? More Exercise." If exercise tuckers you out instead, it could be because you aren't getting enough sleep at night. Get at least 7 hours of sleep every night and reduce stress to prevent exhaustion during the day. Additionally, drinking caffeine or alcohol could contribute to feelings of exhaustion after physical exertion.
Possible Medical Conditions
In rare cases, feeling tired could be the sign of a medical condition, including anemia, liver failure, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, heart disease, emphysema, diabetes restless legs syndrome or kidney failure, according to MayoClinic.com. Additionally, feelings of fatigue could be caused by prescription medications, like blood pressure medication, antidepressants or prescription pain medications. Talk to your doctor, especially if you think your feelings of exhaustion could be related to these conditions.
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