What is the Best Time of Day to Exercise?
I’ve always been a morning workout gal. In college, I remember setting my alarm for the wee hours of the morning, determined to get in a sweat session before class. Sometimes this worked out (pun intended), and other times (like Friday mornings), I found myself hitting snooze. Ten years later (gasp!), I’ve found that mornings still are my prime time for getting my sweat on. While the majority of the world sleeps, I brave the early morning trek to a studio or gym. I beat the crowds, avoid the line at Starbuck’s, and heck—I earn the right to feast on a hearty breakfast. Bring on the avocado! I’ve found that working out in the a.m. is best for my body and schedule. But, that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. In the fitness world, some experts claim morning workouts offer greater advantages, while other fit pros believe the opposite. Who is right? Does it even matter? To end the great debate, I’ve rounded up a few advantages to both sides.
Exercise in the Morning
I love to sweat first thing. You know, before my body figures out what just happened :) I don’t drink coffee, so fitness is my pick-me-up. The endorphins pump me up and get me excited for the day ahead. A few other advantages of early morning workouts include: Avoid Crowds: Gyms are most crowded between 4-7 p.m, making it challenging to get the machine or class time you really want. After a few failed attempts at booking a 5:30 p.m. class, I joined the early morning crew and had no problems getting a spot. While there are lots of gym-goers between 6 and 8 a.m., these guys are on a tight timeline. Gym, then shower, then work, leaving little time for chatting it up at the squat rack. Consistency: In general, it’s easier to stay on track if working out is the first thing you do in the morning. There is less time for traffic, excuses, happy hour, or late nights in the office getting in the way. Once you commit to an a.m. workout routine you’ll start seeing the same people. And don’t be afraid to say hi. I’ve made some amazing fit friends in class (even when we’re half asleep).
Healthy Start to the Day: Set yourself up for success by kickstarting your day with exercise and a healthy breakfast. Not only will you wake up and fuel your body right for a busy day, you’ll also have more physical and mental energy. Remember that cup of coffee I mentioned? Exercise can help “wake up” your mind. Bonus: You can save yourself about $1,100 per year. To use on more classes of course :) Sleep: Knowing you have a morning workout may be motivation enough to hit the hay a bit earlier. I try to go to bed by 9:30 at the latest or I risk being on the struggle bus in the morning. Bragging Rights: Yea, I just crushed that workout. While other folks are just rolling out of bed, you’re already finished. Now, on to breakfast.
Exercise in the Evening
There’s something absolutely amazing about a nighttime hot yoga flow. The detoxifying class sooths my muscles, calms my mind, and prepares me for a restful night’s sleep. Yoga is my favorite way to wind down from a busy day, and get ready for some zzzz’s. In addition to setting yourself up for sleep success, a few other advantages of evening workouts include:Stress Relief: At the end of a rough day, there is nothing more satisfying than a relaxing yoga class, or a kick ass boot camp. Either way, having an outlet to relieve daily stresses is a far better option for your gut and mind than hitting a happy hour.
Alertness: By the time nighttime rolls around you’ve had enough time to eat and fuel your body for a workout. If you’re not a morning person, hitting the snooze button a few times before walking on a treadmill half-asleep isn’t doing your body any favors. Accountability: It can often be a bit easier to find a friend, colleague, or trainer who is willing to meet you for an evening workout than an early morning cardio session. Working out with others (if that’s your jam) can help keep you accountable and coming back day after day.Class Availability: Gyms and studios offer a larger variety of classes after work. In the morning you’ll typically have a 5:30/6:00 a.m. time slot, and a big break until 8:30/9:00 a.m. However, at night, the schedule is always jam packed with options. Friendly Competition: Crowded classes also lead to a bit of friendly competition. Compete against others in class, and work harder to get the most out of your workout time.
The Final Verdict
Find an option that works best for you, and stick to it. Either way, you’ll be sweating and reaping the benefits of a solid workout. Look at your fitness time like you would any other meeting. Prepare, rest up, and come ready to give 100%. Each sweat session is a priority, so carve out some “me time” on your calendar and let’s make it happen. Do you workout in the morning or evening? I’d love you to share your thoughts in the comment section below!