Study claims exercise may help fight fatigue

COURTESY PAT O'CONNOR

Pat O'Connor, director of the University's exercise psychology lab, performs experiments in his lab.

Working out may do more than sculpt your body and keep your heart healthy. University researchers think physical activity may also reduce fatigue.

Patrick O’Connor, co-director of the University’s exercise psychology lab, said there is significant evidence that regular exercise increases energy levels and reduces fatigue.

Exercising is not what a lot of people want to do when they are fatigued, O’Connor said.

However, when studying for an exam, a 15 minute walk can help ease fatigue.

“The intensity matters a lot,” he said.

Some people go to Ramsey Student Center two or three times a day to work out, but that can make him or her more tired, O’Connor said.

Also, playing basketball for two hours on a day when a student plans to study will not help if he is not physically fit, he said.

There is not enough evidence to conclude that exercise eases fatigue more than a cup of coffee, but being physically active helps when exams come around, O’Connor said.

Sean Catlett, a junior from Roswell, agrees that exercise is important.

“When I exercise more, I have more energy,” Catlett said.

Catlett, who exercises regularly, said he tries not to consume caffeine or sugar.

“Because I always work out and get plenty of sleep, I don’t need coffee to stay awake [for studying],” he said.