Too tired/lethargic to work out?

I frequently just feel like I want to relax cause I'm tired, instead of working out. How do you get the energy or motivation when you're feeling like that? Do you drink much caffeine? I find I get addicted and them an drinking it daily, and I think that's also making me feel more lethargic over time.

Replies

  • lily_swenson
    lily_swenson Posts: 38 Member
    I have to just force myself to.. caffeine or nicotine gum.. are you eating enough? If I don't eat enough I have a hard time motivating myself. Maybe try a reward system? Like if you work out 3 x per week for a month you buy yourself something cute?
  • jennycina93
    jennycina93 Posts: 127 Member
    I know this is probably not the answer you are looking for but I just do it. I know I always feel better after I do it and I usually have more energy afterwards. Sometimes my body just needs a little kickstart to get energy for the day. Good luck!
  • _jessicamarie_
    _jessicamarie_ Posts: 35 Member
    I don't even let myself entertain the thought of sitting out of a workout to relax. I treat it like a job, where I HAVE to be there at whatever certain time. Don't think about it too hard or you will start to talk yourself out of it. Just go. Be there when you said you'd be there. Chances are once you get the bump of exercise endorphins going you'll feel a lot less lethargic.
  • in_the_stars
    in_the_stars Posts: 1,395 Member
    No coffee, just green tea. I'm tired too, shattered shoulder + from a car accident. I still do squats, over my sofa so I don't fall, and one legged squats. Not easy but I try to do my best. :)
  • toscarthearmada
    toscarthearmada Posts: 382 Member
    I'm just lazy.

    But I force myself to work out. I plan my workouts ahead and try to stick a routine. So if I cancel one of my workouts, it's on me and I hold myself accountable.

    Get yourself a workout partner to help motivate you! That's what I'm currently trying to find.

    Also, I only do workouts that I'm REALLY passionate about. I like to think of it as my hobby instead of a chore. =)
  • I try to make sure to have enough carbs in my body on the days I want to work out. IE, I usually eat a peanut butter sammich on the days I'm supposed to lift weights. That usually gives me enough energy to get up and go.
  • 1PatientBear
    1PatientBear Posts: 2,089 Member
    Honestly, that why I like working out first thing in the morning. Just get out the door before I even fully wake up. Wake up on my drive to the gym and get it done. After work or after a full day, I just don't have the same motivation.
  • fast_eddie_72
    fast_eddie_72 Posts: 719 Member
    I'm terrible about exercise unless I have a specific goal. Right now I'm training for my fifth half marathon and want to beat my personal record: an unimpressive 2:16:00. Knowing I already signed up for that race and have to run it either way gets me out for my miles even when I don't feel like it.

    Guess what I'm saying is, find something that motivates YOU and figure out how to incorporate that into your routine. My wife REALLY wants to eat these Girl Scout cookies we have. I told her after our 4 mile run today, think about how many you'll be able to have with all the calories you burn! It really seemed to get her motivated. Little treats like that may be a great way to motivate yourself.
  • I frequently just feel like I want to relax cause I'm tired, instead of working out. How do you get the energy or motivation when you're feeling like that? Do you drink much caffeine? I find I get addicted and them an drinking it daily, and I think that's also making me feel more lethargic over time.

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  • Ctrum69
    Ctrum69 Posts: 308 Member
    Critically look over not only how much you are eating, but what it's comprised of.

    An extremely low carb diet can cause you to be too tired to workout, whereas one which is high in fast carbs can give you lots of energy, but not a lot of stamina.

    Go for some fast carbs, more durational (non empty) carbs, and a good amount of protein and healthy fats, and you'll likely find you have more energy than you thought you did.

    (After ruling out underlying medical issues.. like thyroid or other problems, if it's a chronic issue).

    a false mantra in the weight loss world is "a calorie is a calorie is a calorie". Not all calories are the same, and paying attention to what they are comprised of is important.

    (EG: You are going to metabolize, and get different energy from, 400 calories of lean steak and 400 calories of corn syrup).