Low energy days

[KimN]

What do you do about low energy days (assuming you have them?) I mean days like when I get my period, first couple of days, I just don't have the same energy - usually I work through it, because I am afraid if I skip exercising, that will start a bad pattern and I will lose results. Or if I am just for some reason too sore - whatever. Sometimes when I do that, I don't feel very good after, though. So, do you keep up with your regular routine and deal with hit, or cut yourself some slack? maybe increase a certain kind of food/nutrient during those times?

Hope this isn't too general a question.

[Warrior]

I'm so glad you asked this question! Everybody (me included, trust me!) has days like this. This is usually the beginning of the end because we take that day off, then the next day then the next, etc.

It's good that you don't want to miss a day and develop bad habits. Your actions should depend on why you have low energy. Here are some tips to help solve the problem:

If it's the usual "time of the month" deal, try to go about your workout as scheduled. Like you, my first 2 days SUCK energy-wise. I would try to stick it out, but if you usually don't feel well afterwards, try your workout with a lighter load - meaning lower weights or fewer reps. If it's cardio, shorten your time or intensity. That way, you still worked out, so you still get the benefits without killing yourself.

As far as being sore- definitely listen to your body. Don't work sore body parts because you need to give them time to recover. Cardio is good, as it gets the blood pumping and nourishes the muscles. You could do that in place of your weight training, or take a rest day.

So, I guess the short answer is:

All in your head - deal with it
That time of the month - try to deal. if not, cut yourself some slack.
Sore - cut yourself some slack.


Hope that helps!