Saturday, April 26, 2008

Light Workouts

How Light Workouts Can Beat Hard Ones


source: http://www.realage.com/ct/shape-up-slim-down/workouts/tip/5644

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? Then again, it could be stress that has you feeling drained. Get stress-reduction strategies from other RealAge members on our Community Message Boards.
RealAge Benefit: Exercising regularly can make your RealAge as much as 9 years younger.

References Published on 04/24/2008.
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.

EDITOR'S PICK
Beach Cruiser Bicycle


The best workout is the one you enjoy so much that you forget you're doing it. Like peddling a beach cruiser around town, snorkeling through a cove, or dancing to the oldies at a picnic. It doesn't have to be work to work.

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