How to boost your energy when you can't be bothered to workout
Sometimes Nike’s famous tagline ‘Just do it’ doesn’t cut it. That endorphin high might feel good after you’ve pushed yourself, but even putting your running shoes on can feel like too much some days.
You’re capable and you’re strong, but your brain is telling you different. Here’s how to fight the inertia.
Choose your most energetic time of day
If you’re a natural morning person but you’re only making time for exercise at 6pm, you’re fighting with yourself. We all have a 24-hour internal clock called circadian rhythms, which affects when we feel alert and when we feel drowsy.Shift workers and people working nights will find their circadian rhythms have probably become difficult to read, but it’s still possible to form a routine. Take stock of when you feel more energy and start to tailor your exercise regime around it – you’ll find it much easier to get up and get out.
Avoid high sugar foods before exercise
Carbohydrates and sugary foods might feel like they give you lots of energy, but they’re really short-lived. It’s a fairly complex process, but your cells are fuelled by the energy in your food. If that food is packed full of sugar, the energy is absorbed really quickly, your blood sugar goes down again (making you feel drowsy and sometimes a bit shaky), and this sends signals to your brain that you need more.
The steadier your blood sugar, the more sustainable your energy levels will be. Eat protein, veg, nuts, and fruits like melon and blueberries, and avoid processed sugars, white pasta, and bread.
Have reasonable expectations of yourself
Some fear failure when it comes to fitness because they’ve already set steep expectations. It’s easier to put it off completely rather than not meet your own high standards. No one sees instant results and stamina can take a long time to build, so lower your expectations and take it one exercise at a time.If you have to drag yourself to the gym like a toddler to bed, consider a different activity or routine. Who says you have to go on a cross trainer?
Start small
Starting something is often harder than actually doing it. Your motivation levels will continue to rise as you feel active, break a sweat, and then before you know it you’re all done.Instead of anticipating a full hour of exercise, think about what you’re going to do for the first 10 minutes and digest it in chunks. You’ll see it as much more achievable and the time will fly.
For a one-on-one, tailored exercise programme, contact us through our website, or call us on
07925 787883, to discuss personal training programmes and prices
