Sometimes, getting yourself to workout any time of day is a challenge. But when you plan effectively, determining the best time to exercise can significantly impact your workout’s effectiveness and your enjoyment. While the optimal time can vary based on individual schedules and preferences, understanding how different times of day affect your body can help you choose the most effective window for your fitness routine.
Morning Workouts: Kickstart Your Metabolism
Exercising in the morning has several benefits that can appeal to early risers. Morning workouts are excellent for setting a positive tone for the day. Engaging in physical activity early in the day boosts your metabolism, helping you burn more calories throughout the day.
As another benefit, morning exercise routines are less likely to be interrupted by daily responsibilities, making consistency easier. For many, completing a workout first thing provides a sense of accomplishment and can lead to healthier choices throughout the day.
Evening Workouts: Maximize Performance
Evening workouts are ideal for those who find it tough to get going in the morning. Research suggests that the body’s performance peaks in the late afternoon, when muscles are warmed up, reaction times are quick, and heart rate and blood pressure are lowest, which can reduce the risk of injury and improve performance. Working out in the evening can also be a great way to relieve the stress of the day and can help manage appetite during the evening, potentially aiding in weight management.
The best time to exercise depends largely on personal preference, lifestyle, and body rhythms. Morning exercisers benefit from a metabolism boost and enhanced consistency, while evening workouts might maximize physical performance and stress relief. Experimenting with different times can help you find the schedule that fits best with your lifestyle and goals – and you can always switch it up depending on your needs that day.
Hi! My name is Kimmy B, I am the co-host of the We’reHard podcast. I have a passion for fitness, nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. I’ve always loved working out and staying active but recently found my groove in the fitness industry.