Trying to lose weight and become healthier is one of the most worthwhile goals we can have. However, finding the time to exercise on a regular basis can be a challenge, therefore we all want to get the most out of that sweat time! So, is it best to exercise in the morning, afternoon or night?
Morning
Pros:
• Studies have shown that this is the best time of day if you want to stick with your exercise habit. You're able to get to it before daily tasks and distractions get in the way or give you an excuse not to. (Personally, I prefer to get it out of the way early on so that it's not hanging over my head all day and also I feel great the rest of the day knowing I've done something good for myself - it has become a habit!)
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• It gets you moving and energized for you day ahead. It also elevates your metabolism early in the day and you'll burn calories all day long. The endorphin rush should also put you in a better mood for the rest of the day - something everyone will be happy about!
• Since you will not have eaten much yet (however, you will have needed a good night's sleep), your body will more readily utilize the stored fat as energy thereby maximizing fat loss!
Cons:
• If you have to be at work early, getting up early enough to fit in a workout may actually cut in on your sleep time. This would actually be counter-productive since a good night's sleep for your body's rest and recovery is as important as the exercise.
• Your body's blood sugar is lower in the morning so it can be more difficult to push your hardest throughout the workout. Although, if you are doing a moderate-intensity cardio exercise rather than high-intensity weight training, this should not be less of an issue.
Afternoon
Pros:
• Research on the science of how our body works shows that late afternoon exercise is best for greatest muscle power and flexibility. It's your body's peak performance time in terms of lung function, body rhythms and temperature, and optimal hormone levels. This all adds up to the ability for you to push yourself and exercise harder and longer if you desire which means you can burn more calories.
• Your blood sugar is higher and if you've eaten properly you'll have lots of energy from the carbohydrates in your system. Therefore, this is probably the best time for intense exercise & weight training sessions.
Cons:
• Obviously, work, kids and other commitments during the afternoon make it impossible for some of us to get in a workout during this time of day.
Night
Pros:
• Your schedule is finally open.
• You are well fueled from your healthy food intake throughout the day.
Cons:
• You may be tired from your day's work. This will make it more likely for you to skip your workout altogether or just not exercise as long or hard as you would like to, thus not getting as much benefit.
• For some people, exercising right before bed can make it difficult to get a good night's sleep ( and as I mentioned earlier, sleep is very important in a healthy body and body weight). However, you can find ways to overcome that by perhaps taking a long warm shower or drinking a cup of herbal tea to relax your body and mind before turning in.
The bottom line is that the best time to exercise is whenever you can! Experts agree that the key to success in any
weight loss effort is consistency, so find a time that fits into your life. Make a conscious decision to do something great for yourself, commit to it and you will be successful.
For other great tips and resources to help you on your quest for a leaner, healthier you, go to my 'about the author page'.
Here is another website that will certainly help you on the road to your weight loss goals:
7keystoweightloss.com
By Jean S Butt
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