The Best Time of Day to Exercise, According to Science
Your fitness journey may be significantly impacted by the time of your workouts. While some people like early workouts, others choose late ones. Is there, however, a certain time of day that is “best” for exercising? Let’s explore what science has to say about the best time for exercise.
Morning Exercise: Benefits and Drawbacks
Morning workouts have a unique set of benefits and drawbacks:
Benefits:
Enhanced Metabolism. Exercise in the morning can increase your metabolism and help you burn more calories all day long.
Consistency. Because there are less distractions and scheduling difficulties in the morning, morning exercisers frequently find it simpler to keep to their programs.
Enhanced Mood. Endorphins, or “feel-good” hormones, are released when you exercise. Exercise in the morning might make you feel upbeat and energized.
Improved Sleep. Regular morning exercise can assist in controlling your sleep cycles and enhancing the quality of your nighttime rest.
Drawbacks:
Warm-Up Time. Some people discover that warming up their muscles and joints in the morning takes more time, which, if done incorrectly, might increase the risk of injury.
Time Constraints. Early risers might only have a short window of time for an exercise before their daily obligations begin.
Body Temperature. Exercise performance may be affected by the body’s tendency to be colder in the morning.
Afternoon Exercise: Benefits and Drawbacks
The benefits and drawbacks of afternoon exercise are as follows:
Benefits:
Optimal Body Temperature. Body temperature is best in the afternoon when it tends to be warmer, which can enhance exercise performance and lower the chance of injury.
Strength and Power. The afternoon is a good time for strength training because it is typically when muscles are at their best.
Flexibility. Later in the day, joints and muscles are more flexible, possibly lowering the risk of strains and sprains.
Endurance. According to a large body of research, physical performance peaks in the late afternoon.
Drawbacks:
Schedule Conflicts. It might be difficult to stick to a regimen when afternoon workouts conflict with social or professional obligations.
Energy swings. Some people have afternoon energy drops, which can influence workout intensity and motivation.
Evening Exercise: Benefits and Drawbacks
Evening workouts have their own set of benefits and drawbacks:
Benefits:
Warm-up. Because of the day’s activities, your body is usually already warmed up, cutting down on the time needed for warm-up exercises.
Stress Reduction. Exercise in the evening can assist release tension and stress that has accumulated throughout the day.
Social interaction. Workouts with friends or group fitness sessions in the evening can inspire and give a sense of belonging.
Drawbacks:
Sleep Disruption. Intense activity too close to bedtime can cause some people’s sleep patterns to become disrupted.
Crowded gyms. Since many individuals prefer evening workouts, there may be crowding at the gym and longer equipment wait times.
The greatest time to work out is ultimately the time that works with your schedule, tastes, and lifestyle. The most important element is constancy. Regular physical exercise is what matters most for your overall health and fitness goals, regardless of whether you’re a morning person, afternoon enthusiast, or evening warrior. The best time to exercise ultimately depends on the individual. Pay attention to your body and pick a training time that will enable you to work out to your full potential and have fun. No matter when you work out, the most crucial thing is to be active and give your fitness journey priority.
Read more: Do You Have to be Flexible to do Pilates?
Discover the power of Pilates with Evergreen Rehab and Wellness – strengthening your body, and calming your mind.
Take the first step towards a stronger, healthier you – sign up for Evergreen Rehab and Wellness Pilates today! You may book a 1:1 or a duet Pilates session at our Coquitlam clinic or Langley Clinic.