The Red and Black

Issue date: 8/27/07 Section: News

Media Credit: COURTESY PAT O'CONNOR Pat O'Connor, director of the University's exercise psychology lab, performs experiments in his lab. [Click to enlarge]

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.

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