How to deal with post-workout fatigue

Many fitness gurus recommend a work-out to help increase your energy levels, make you more alert and of course, improve your health and fitness.

But there are days when working out can leave you feeling exhausted and lethargic. You are less productive and no matter what you try, you are unable to raise your energy levels. According to Livestrong, post-workout exhaustion could be a sign that something is not right.

Below are ways in which you can deal with and reduce post-workout fatigue.

1. Drink enough water

Ensure you are well hydrated before, during and after your workout. As you exercise, you lose your water through sweating and this can lead to dehydration. This can make you feel exhausted.

2. Watch what you eat

If you’re exercising to lose weight, you might get tempted to eat less. But this could be detrimental to your weight loss because your body needs the food to produce the energy used when you exercise.

Eating healthy pre workout meals is just as important as eating healthy post workout meals will only give you enough energy to work out. It will also help you recover from your workout. Foods that release energy more slowly are ideal.

A light snack like yoghurt or a banana with nut butter are great post-workout snack.

3. Don’t do too much too soon

Your workout should be in tandem with your current fitness level and not what you hope to be. When you are just starting out, do a less intense workout. Increase the intensity and length of time spent working out the fitter you get.

4. Ensure you get enough rest

Allow your body to recuperate from an intense workout. Take it easy the day after an intense workout. You can either do a less intense workout or not exercise at all.

It’s also important to get enough sleep. If you can, take a nap after your workout. Alternatively, ensure you sleep seven to nine hours at night. Your body will repair itself as you sleep.

5. See a doctor

While feeling tired after a workout is normal, chronic fatigue could be an indication of a health issue like anaemia, thyroid disease, diabetes, heart disease, etc. It could also be a result of taking certain medications like antihistamines, some blood pressure medicines, among others. Ensure you see your doctor for further tests.