The age old question. How to exercise when you have no energy. Trust us, there isn’t a one size fits all answer. There’s of course a difference between feeling a bit low on energy, vs exhaustion. And we’re not saying to push through when you truly need a break. We need to give our bodies rest days, in fact, it’s essential! But there are days when we may feel low energy, and the cure may just be some exercise. Sitting stagnant can often make us feel more tired than we actually are!
Why to exercise when you’re low on energy?
Moving your body is one of the most effective and natural ways, to boost your energy! We’ve all been there. Working long hours at your desk, by 3pm you’re beat! Why would you want to exercise?
Well, the answer is simple. “exercise increases long-term energy levels by improving your body’s ability to circulate oxygen and nutrients, boosting your mood and focus, and leading to better sleep. Even a short, low-to-moderate activity like a 15-minute walk can provide a quick energy boost by raising energy-promoting neurotransmitters in your brain.” There are so many amazing benefits of exercise, feel free to learn more here.
In this week’s blog we’re giving you a few time on how to exercise when you have no energy. Trust us, you’ll more than likely feel better after your movement, than you did before! And if you’re looking for workout isnspiration, give our 14 day movement challenge a try. You can find more information here!
Find Yourself An Accountability Partner
Whoever said you had to do it all alone, was incorrect! 😉 Working out with a buddy, or even just with a community group, can make a big difference in how and when you show up. Just like anything in life, community makes a big difference in our everyday lives. If you’ve booked a 6am workout class, you’re a lot more likely to cancel if you’ve only committed to yourself. You’re lying in bed, you’re super sleepy, why would you want to get up? Having a friend to meet for a workout, or a class booked is going to give you that extra push you need, to get out of bed.
Switch Up Your Workout Routine | Try Something New
Feeling a bit uninspired with your workout routine? Switch it up! If you already have low energy, and you aren’t a big fan of the workout routine you’re currently doing, why not try something new? We all go through waves of things that we don’t like. For example, maybe you’re really on the Spin bandwagon for a while. But then you aren’t craving as much high intensity cardio! So why not try something else? Give pilates a go for a while, or perhaps incorporate both into your routine. The biggest takeaway is, just listen to your body. Your workout routine doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s. The best type of movement is one you enjoy. So try a few different things and see what you like best. I personally love to incorporate a mix of strength training, pilates, a cardio day of choice and lots of walking!
Walking is Your Best Friend
It wasn’t until recently that it really clicked for me. Walking is probably the number one type of movement you can do! Just getting outside and/or on the treadmill, can make a huge difference in your movement routine. If you’re able to put in 7k+ steps a day, you’ll notice such a difference in your energy levels and your overall health. Walking will naturally boost your energy, reduces stress, gives your mind a break from a long work day, and supports bone health and overall cardiovascular health. The benefits are endless, while also still being incredibly accessible.
Pick Your Peak Energy Time
We all have different body clocks. My peak energy levels could be vastly different than yours. For example, Meg enjoys going to the gym first thing in the morning. That schedule works best for her daily routine and when she has the most energy. Whereas I prefer to workout later in the day, I like to sweat off the stress of a long day. I often have a mid day slump, and then once the evening rolls around, I feel more energized to workout. A lot of studies will show that working out in the morning is the best time for our bodies. BUT, that doesn’t mean you have to follow that rule. Truly the best time is when you feel your best. Any sort of movement is going to have benefit to you, so pick your optimal timing.
Thanks for following along on another blog, we hope this gave you some inspiration to move your body and get out of a low energy slump. And if you want to be friends online, give us a shout on Instagram! @livingandlifestyle_ – we love to connect with you all. And if you want some inspiration on food and recipe ideas, check out our list of healthy eats you can try. Combining great food and movement is the key to feeling your best, all year long. Check out some of Meg’s recipe, here.
Thanks for being here.
xo
Cornelia & Meg
