Get It Now: Maximum Energy

How Cardio Cures Fatigue

Too pooped to drag yourself to your favorite Spinning class? A little sweat session may be just what you need to recharge your batteries. Just 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise -- done at 60 to 75 percent of maximum heart rate -- has been shown to significantly improve both mood and energy levels, says Tom LaFontaine, PhD, a clinical exercise physiologist in Columbia, Missouri. Research has shown that exercise elevates serotonin levels to provide an instant lift. The best cardio Rx for an energy boost: Aerobic exercises like running and fast walking, done in the morning, will rev you up for several hours.

Got a case of the energy blahs? Beat them -- pronto -- with our invigorating exercise-ball workout. Most forms of fitness will make you feel more alert, but doing strength moves on a stability ball will really send your body a wake-up call, says Elizabeth Gillies, a Pilates instructor and the author of 101 Ways to Work Out on the Ball (Fair Winds Press, 2004). The ball makes you balance, which improves core strength and posture. "That helps you take in breath better and more efficiently, which gives you an instant boost," explains Gillies. Bonus: You'll also sculpt sexy legs, shoulders, arms, butt, and abs as you reenergize.

Do two sets of each exercise and say so long to sluggishness in seconds!