Morning v. Evening Workouts

I have preached over and over that in my experience, people are more successful in their fitness program when they exercise first thing in the morning. I still believe this to be true, but if you’re a “snoozer”, you have a reason to wait. If you are just starting to get back in the swing of a fitness routine, consider the benefits to working out morning versus evening to make the transition fit into your life a bit easier.

Morning workouts:

• Research indicates that your body burns through more fat when you have an empty stomach.
  
• Getting your workout done early doesn’t allow other distractions to catch your attention throughout the day.
  
• Working out in the morning can help you get focused and mentally organized before your day starts.
  
• If you have a stressful job, you may feel less energetic when you leave the office.
  
• Coordinating to meet up with a friend is more likely to happen in the morning.
  

Evening workouts:

• Your heart is elevated and prepped to exercise more efficiently.
  
• You are less likely to strain muscles in the afternoon when your core body temperature is typically warmer.
  
• You are more likely to avoid those sinful after-work activities like happy hour and going out to eat.
  
• If you are a night owl, you have the time to wind down after exercise whereas “morning people” experience having a hard time falling asleep because of elevated heart rate and blood pressure.

Working out in the later part of the day definitely has its advantages. I’d like to add, though, that people who work out in the evening need to be extra committed to avoid everyday distractions that can fill up your day and crowd out exercise. The most important thing to remember is to figure out what works best for you and commit to a routine. A few days turns into weeks turns into years. Before you know it, working out will be a part of your life and you will inspire others to do the same.

---