It is an age-old question, should I wake up early and hit the gym, or workout in the afternoon? Research has shown that there is more than one way to answer that question, so let’s take a look at the benefits of both.
Early Morning
-Getting up early and getting your exercise out of the way is a much easier habit to form, and research has shown that it leads to more consistent workouts.
-Raising your endorphin levels first thing in the morning can improve your mood for the entire day.
-Raising your heart rate and metabolism first thing in the morning can lead to extended calorie burn throughout the day
-You may find it easier to talk yourself out of exercising if you wait until the evening. Also, other obligations are far less likely to interfere with your workout in the morning
-Some people find it harder to sleep after an early evening workout.
Evening Workouts
-Research by Dr. Phyllis Zee of Northwestern University has shown that muscle strength is at its peak and muscles are warmer and more supple in the late afternoon, meaning you are less likely to hurt yourself.
-You are more awake and alert and able to focus on your workout in the afternoon
-You will tolerate the discomfort of workouts better in the afternoon
-Studies have shown that lung function is more optimal in the afternoon.
-Older people are less likely to suffer from heart attack or stroke in the afternoon.
-You are less likely to eat a huge dinner if you have just worked out.
With all that said, research has also shown that there really is something to the notion that some people function better in the morning and some people function better in the evening, so you are really the only person who can answer the question of what time of day you should exercise. Do you wake up easily early in the morning, ready to go? Do you have lots of commitments after work, like kids who need help with homework? If so, morning exercise is definitely better for you. Are you the type of person who is hitting the snooze button three times every morning? Are you able to make a commitment to getting your workout in during the afternoon or early evening? If so, you will benefit from evening workouts.
Aside from the debate over what time of day to exercise, research has shown a frightening increase in obesity and decrease in activity levels among Americans. Whatever time you decide to do it, the important thing is that you make time for exercise on a regular basis.
