How to Get (and Stay) Energized!

You may be worried about having enough energy to exercise. These tips can help. If you’re worried about not having enough energy to exercise it’s important to remember that exercise can actually give you more energy. After they start to be more active, most people feel more energetic throughout the day.

Step 1: Eat a Balanced Diet
Unless you’re exercising for an hour or more, you don’t need to eat more calories or eat special foods for energy. A balanced diet will give most people the energy they need for physical activity. Eat the recommended number of servings from each food group. The interactive Web site www.MyPlate.gov lets you personalize a food guide based on your age, gender, and amount of daily physical activity. When it comes to snacks, choose healthy options like an apple, a whole-wheat bagel, or a handful of baby carrots if you’re running low on energy. Nutrition bars are convenient, but be sure to read the label. They can be high in calories.

Step 2: Drink Plenty of Fluids
Many people do not drink enough fluids to balance the loss from sweating from physical activity. To protect yourself from dehydration drink plenty of water before, during, and after you are active and avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol as they can increase dehydration.

Step 3: Make Sure You’re Rested
If you feel weak and tired but aren’t sick try a short, brisk walk or similar activity. You may find that walking for 5 to 10 minutes actually gives you more energy.
Switch back and forth between rest and exercise. Gradually increasing your exercise may give you more energy. You should also try to cut back on watching TV. Spend that time with friends, try new activities, or travel to break the cycle of tiredness.

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