Health and Wellbeing Advice
BOUNCE INTO SPRING
October 19 2011,
by Paul Pearce, STARplex Fitness Centre Manager
As the weather begins to improve and the days get longer we look for more energy. However there are days when we just struggle accomplishing the simplest tasks and feel tired and irritable. Have you ever wondered why some people just bounce into work with almost limitless energy?
The answer can be found in a combination of factors; a well balanced diet, regular exercise plan and rest. These three are vital and drive the human body’s performance.
Here are some tips to increase your energy and performance:
Eating regular small meals throughout the day sounds simple, yet few of us follow this. For breakfast and lunch eat a high protein meal as this will include nutrients to help boost energy levels and concentration. Eggs are a popular option for the morning and easy to prepare. Chicken or fish at lunch will give you a fuller, satisfied feeling and lessen the need for snacking.
Physical exercise encourages the muscles to increase circulation of blood throughout the body. Placing demand on the respiratory muscles makes the body more efficient at removing carbon dioxide from the blood. Exercise and movement as part of your daily routine, increases the ability to perform better and for longer periods.
Athletes understand that peak performance begins the night before. Sustained energy levels the following day are the result of deep, restorative sleep. Aiming for 7-8 hours a night is important for restoration of cells in your body. The key to finding quality sleep is mentally and physically “unwinding” an hour before.
Recovery and rest cannot be ignored. The benefits of a “siesta” are well known in Europe as it allows the brain to recharge and perform more efficiently in the afternoon. As little as 15 minutes is enough to improve our concentration levels.
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