Morning vs. evening exercise
Are you a morning person who hits the gym before the sun comes up? Or are you more of a “workout after work” kind of person? Both morning and evening workouts have their perks, but they also come with a few downsides. Let’s break it down to help you figure out which one fits your lifestyle.
Morning exercise: The early bird gets the gains
Benefits:
Boosts your energy: Starting your day with a workout can leave you feeling energized and ready to conquer the world. According to Piedmont Healthcare, exercise gets your blood pumping, making you more alert and focused throughout the day.
More consistency: When you exercise in the morning, it’s less likely that your workout will get derailed by work or social plans. You’ve already checked off your fitness goal.
Improved mood: Morning exercise releases those feel-good endorphins early, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.
Negatives:
Tough to wake up: If you're not a morning person, getting up for a 6 a.m. workout can feel like a battle. Plus, your body might feel stiff, making a morning workout less enjoyable.
Lower strength: Your muscles may not be as awake and ready to work first thing, so you might not push yourself as hard in the morning.
Evening exercise: end your day on a high note
Benefits:
More strength & performance: According to the Mayo Clinic, your body’s temperature is higher in the evening, which means your muscles are looser, and you can perform at your peak. This could mean better strength gains.
Stress relief: A workout after a long day can help you de-stress and unwind, clearing your mind and releasing tension from the day.
Flexibility: You have more time in the evening to experiment with different workouts, whether it’s yoga, weight training or a good old dance party in your living room.
Negatives:
Late-night energy boost: If you exercise too late, it can interfere with your sleep. Your body might still be too revved up, making it harder to fall asleep.
Potential distractions: After a long workday, you may find it harder to stay motivated, or other evening plans might get in the way.
Conclusion: what's the best time to work out?
The best time to exercise is the one that fits your schedule and feels the best for your body. Whether you're an early bird or a night owl, as long as you move, you’re on the right track. So, get your sweat on whether it is morning, evening or whenever the mood strikes.
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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
