Written By: Mansi Kohli | Updated : October 19, 2013 1:52 PM IST
Ideally speaking, an exercise regimen should leave you feeling stronger, invigorated and mentally focussed. What's more, exercise itself can make you feel less fatigued and more energized. But, on the other hand, many of you would vouch for the fact that when it comes to working out, the more tired you are, the better your workout was! But is it really the truth? Today, Bangalore-based Wanitha Ashok, a body transformation expert will help us unearth the real facts behind workout fatigue, and practical ways of fighting it.
In an endeavour to become an overnight athlete or to shed kilos as fast as possible, we tend to lead our body to workout fatigue. This gives us a feeling that we are 'wasted' from our workouts, leading to holes in your motivation levels because of extreme soreness and pain in the body. But do you really think workout fatigue is a necessary evil? We think otherwise.
Pushing one's body to unimaginable limits without giving it proper recovery time can only leave you demotivated, sore and in pain.
You might consider yourself to be the hardest working person in the gym; but you never seem to progress at the rate you ideally should have, leaving you with a not-so-good feeling after the workout. This is because, a good workout should leave you charged up, allowing you to take on the day with full gusto and still not feel tired.
So, now you may be wondering the real difference between a 'good soreness level' and a 'bad soreness level'?
The difference would be 'nice pain' and an 'ouch pain'. 'Nice pain' is bearable and it is nothing to worry about as this is experienced during the workout and will last for 24 hours, but will soon subside and exercises can be continued. The 'nice pain' is due to the recruitment of the working muscles. The 'ouch pain' is an acute pain and leads to discomfort and if it lasts for more than 48 hours, then medical attention is needed and exercises should be discontinued and proper rest is highly recommended. The 'ouch pain' can occur due to improper alignment, execution and speed.
Extreme pain, body soreness, and dead-tired exhaustion have no relation in achieving physiological benefits. On the other hand, a newbie is bound to feel tired. They should start slow and allow their body to get used to the exercises and gradually build on working harder.
Effective and practical ways to treat workout fatigue
Apart from extreme workouts, lack of nutrition can also be one of the main reasons for workout fatigue. It is a universally known fact that food is our fuel. Improper nutrition and dehydration can lead to fatigue and poor performance. Pre and post workout nutrition will enhance your regime and recovery, and must be given due consideration. Along with this, rest and a good sleep is recommended for rejuvenation. Mentioned below is a point-wise description of the top four ways to effectively treat workout fatigue:
1. Diet alterations
2. Indulge yourself in a proper pre workout nutrition
A pre workout nutrition can be as simple as a fruit, a glass of low fat milk, a yoghurt smoothie, a banana or a whole wheat vegetable sandwich.
3. Smart training advice
'Variation' is the magic word for weight loss. Surprising and challenging your body will engage and recruit your muscles, which will in turn lead to calorie burn and physiological changes. This will also not allow you to reach an exercise plateau.
4. A good sleep is a must
Extreme workoutis the time when the body rejuvenates and rebuilds. Inadequate sleep generally tends to lead to fatigue, poor performance and weight gain. And additionally, a power nap is also recommended.
Follow these tips and get rid of workout fatigue forever. After all, your body needs adequate care to be able to go on with your tasks.
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