Is there a time of day that is more beneficial for working out? Does working out in the morning prove to be a more effective exercise time than working out later in the day?
Those are questions Jen, from Getting Fit With Jen, hears often. Here’s what she has to say about it:
There are a variety of studies that “prove” different theories on the subject of what time of day is best for working out. Most studies will tell you that working out in the morning is better and more effective. The thought behind this is that early morning exercise will energize you, get your day started right, and boost your metabolism.
Is this true? Sure, working out in the morning can be beneficial in these ways. But what if you’re the type of person who is groggy in the morning? What if getting up extra early for exercise just doesn’t work for you? What if you simply do not have time to work out first thing in the morning?
Occasionally some find that working out at night before bed makes it hard for them to sleep because of the endorphins that have been released during the workout, pumping them up and giving them extra energy. Some people find that working out at night doesn’t affect them negatively and that, in fact, they actually sleep better immediately following a good workout.
I say: Exercise during a time that works best for you. If morning works for you – great. If afternoon works for you – great. If night time works best for you – great. As long as you are finding time to exercise, no matter what time of day it is, you will reap the rewards!
Read more of Jen’s thoughts on this subject in her post: Finding Time to Exercise. If you’re interested in having Jen set up a personalized work-out program for you, read more about the services she provides here. I have benefited so much from having her as my “personal trainer”. :)
I am definitely a workout at night girl. I used to run during college at 11pm or even midnight. I knew where all the campus cop cars sat because that was the route I took. I could come back and sit and totally focus on studies for an hour and then crash and get a great nights sleep.
I agree with this post! Thank you for a wonderful series!
Great post. I have recently discovered that working out first thing works best for me, before eating, while the kids are doing their morning chores and making breakfast. It used to be in the middle of the day but first thing in the morning is great for fat burning and it really balances the hormones as well so I find that it creates a calm mindset to face my busy day. And there is that sense of accomplishment feeling that even if I did not get all I wanted done for that day, having worked out just gives me that sense of accomplishment. :)
Nickole
I workout in the evening, except on Mondays when it’s 330-430. That’s when I do Zumba!
I find working out in the evening, I actually sleep better. No problems going to sleep.