Finding The Ideal Workout Time

Discover the best time to exercise to maximize benefits and enjoyment.

Tags:

Health

(NDAB Creativity / Shutterstock.com)

Exercise is great for you in every way, and whether you are a seasoned fitness enthusiast or a newcomer, this article is for you. Choosing which type of exercise regimen to select may require research, physician advice and can have varied answers depending on individual factors. As you strive to integrate workouts into your routine, you may want to understand the benefits and considerations that different workout timings can have on your overall fitness goals and lifestyle.

Morning workouts
Morning workouts are perfect for busy people. And for many fitness lovers, starting the day off with a morning workout is invigorating and empowering. By hitting the gym in the early morning or going for a run at the crack of dawn, you set the tone for the rest of the day. According to a recent study, it may be easier to stay consistent with morning workouts as there usually aren't as many things interrupting you at that time of day. 

Another great benefit is that you can enjoy the mental health benefits of your workout and the “feel good” hormones pumping through your body all day long, as the Piedmont Healthcare website states. They also explain that early workouts can help you boost your metabolism and even sleep better. If these things are important to you and if you find that you feel great the whole day after working out in the early morning, this might be the right choice for you.

Afternoon workouts
While some individuals prefer to exercise early in the morning, not everyone is a morning person. Some people actually find that their exercise performance peaks later in the day. In fact, according to LA Fit Studio, your glucose levels are higher after a few meals, which means that when you exercise in the afternoon, you have more energy for harder workouts and even burn up to 10 percent more calories than when you workout at other times. So if you are planning on using up lots of energy and taking part in high-energy workouts, afternoons can be the best time to do so.

Another thing to keep in mind regarding afternoon workouts is that they can be great for people with high-stress jobs and lives, as they can serve as stress relievers and allow you to release the tension and pressure accumulated throughout the day. 

Evening workouts
If you are a night person, this one's for you. According to Verywell Fit, working out at night can have way more benefits than just a less crowded gym, although that really is a great one. They explain that working out at night can actually increase your performance, endurance, flexibility and exercise duration. If you are a late night exercise junkie, these may be the reasons why. 

All workout times have their distinct benefits and at the end of the day, it comes down to your preferences, lifestyle and fitness goals. Regardless of the timing you choose, the most crucial factor is to find a schedule that will help you stay consistent. And whether you choose to exercise in the mornings, afternoons or nights, don't forget to enjoy the process!

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:
What’s Your Ideal Exercise? [Quiz]
How to Exercise in the Summer Heat
5 Hacks to Get You Exercising