How Light Workouts Can Beat Hard Ones

We know how it is. The thought of sweating through a workout can turn couch gravity into an absolutely irresistible force.

But here's some good news for slackers: Easy, breezy, light exercise may do more for your energy levels than the hard stuff. So go ahead, put your workout on cruise control. Just this once.

Get up and go . . .
Research shows that a program of low intensity exercise training -- like light cycling on a stationary bike for 30 minutes three times a week -- can reduce tired-all-the-time feelings by as much as 65 percent. And it only takes 6 weeks of light workouts to feel pepped up. Moderate-intensity exercise programs boost energy levels, too, but not as much. (Know what the easiest workout in the world is? It's this.)

. . . got up and went
One possible explanation for the better energy boost from lighter workouts: More vigorous workouts shape you up but also tire you out. So if you're just trying to get off the couch for a change, start slow. Go at whatever pace is comfortable for you -- in a few weeks, you'll feel your tiredness fade. Then you can think about kicking things up a notch. (How fit are you? Check your current fitness level with this easy test.)

Energy Drain
So what's sapping your energy?

• Maybe you're drinking too much of this.
• Or maybe you're not getting enough sleep. Take this assessment to see if you might have a problem.
• Or maybe you've got a food allergy. Here's how to tell.
• Or maybe you need more B vitamins. Here's how a shortage will affect you.

A randomized controlled trial of the effect of aerobic exercise training on feelings of energy and fatigue in sedentary young adults with persistent fatigue. Puetz, T. W., Flowers, S. S., O'Connor, P. J., Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics 2008 Feb;77(3)167-174.