Exercise and Fatigue
Exercise can improve your energy level and help prevent
fatigue. Gentle exercises such as walking, using a
stationary bicycle, and swimming are a good way to start an exercise
routine.
- Start slowly. If you have not exercised for a
while, you will not be able to complete a vigorous program (even if you want
to!). Start by doing 10 minutes of
moderate exercise at a time. Increase slowly, and
build up your exercise program bit by bit.
- Aim for at least 2½
hours a week of moderate activity.1 It's fine to be
active in blocks of 10 minutes or more throughout your day and
week.
- Try not to overdo it. If you have not exercised for some
time, you can easily become fatigued, which will defeat the purpose of
exercising.
Moderate activity is safe for most people, but it's always a
good idea to talk to your doctor before you start an exercise program.
Citations
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2008).
2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (ODPHP
Publication No. U0036). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Available online:
http://www.health.gov/paguidelines/guidelines/default.aspx.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
|---|
| Primary Medical Reviewer | William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine |
|---|
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | David Messenger, MD |
|---|
| Last Revised | January 7, 2013 |
|---|
Last Revised:
January 7, 2013
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2008).
2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (ODPHP
Publication No. U0036). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Available online:
http://www.health.gov/paguidelines/guidelines/default.aspx.
