Crossroads Fitness Blog

Everyone knows what it’s like to feel tired. Fatigue is our body’s way of telling us it’s time for rest. With work, meetings deadlines and children, however, it’s easy to ignore these signs and power down another coffee or energy drink.

These quick fixes don’t overcome the need for rest, they merely subdue the symptoms for a brief time. The feeling of fatigue comes naturally, as your body will do the work and let you know. Depriving your body of its required rest will leave you with symptoms that are not only unhealthy, but also unproductive.

Sure, you can resist the urge to sleep to accommodate your busy lifestyle for a short time. Staying up late and getting up early are easy habits to start. But you could find you’re actually accomplishing less. Studies show adults need six to eight hours of sound sleep a day. Without this necessary allotment, the human brain and body don’t function to their full abilities. Work becomes complacent, family time scarce and workout regimens nonexistent.

While they sound like contradictory impulses, exercise will improve your overall fight against fatigue. According to researcher Patrick O’Connor, “More than 90 percent of the studies showed the same thing. Sedentary people who completed a regular exercise program reported improved fatigue compared to groups that did not exercise. It is a very consistent effect.”

When you find yourself in the middle of a fatigue battle, move. If you can’t make it to the gym, do something to release those endorphins. Complete a series of jumping jacks or go for a brisk walk at the very least. Moving will keep you going. The best choice is to set aside a time in your day just for physical training. Whatever your fitness level, start doing something.

You are what you eat. If you hurriedly scarf down a fast food burger and fries every day for lunch, your body will treat you as such. If you prepare meals ahead of time that consist of all the food groups, you’ll have more time to enjoy the nutrients you’re giving yourself. Your body works hard for you all day, give it the essential things it needs and it will provide the energy you need.
To become the productive, family oriented, present individual to which you aspire, make yourself a priority. Ensure your six to eight hours of sleep each night, eat regular healthy meals and commit to 30 minutes of exercise at least five days a week. You’ll stay focused on tasks and enjoy the life you live with the people that matter most to you.