The Best Time of Day to Workout
 
Finding time to workout regularly is a challenge faced by most of us. Americans are both the most productive yet unfortunately the fattest. This article is aimed at providing helpful information to those interested in beginning an exercise routine but aren’t sure as to the best time of day.
 
The focus here is the morning workout compared to late day training.
 
Experts have varying opinions regarding the benefits to training in the morning. Advantages often cited include:
 
  • Accelerated metabolism early in the day.
  • Depresses appetite through a longer portion of the day
  • Increases mental acuity (why waste this at night)
  • Less prone to work related interruptions. If you have a hectic schedule, working out in the morning may be the only way to ensure adequate time for you.
  • Release of endorphins improves mood and reduces body aches.
  • Their is some evidence your body will burn a little more fat in the morning than later in the day.
  • Air temperatures are cooler
  • Pollution levels are at their lowest
 
Disadvantages
 
 
  • Body temperature is coldest after awaking. You should warm up before beginning your workout.
  • Body’s natural rhythms (Circadian rhythms) favor working out later in the day. Strength and energy levels are higher at this time of day. (Some experts indicate the body will adjust its rhythm to your morning routine if performed consistently)
  • Many people look forward to unwinding their day with their workout.
 
Try to choose a time that matches your training goals. If your focus is on strength and power, then training in the afternoon might be best. If you are trying to shed fat, morning workouts may have the edge.
 
In the end, the real key is to train. The time of day is not so important. But it needs to be time you can take for your self regularly and reliably.
 
 
References:
 
"Exercise in the Morning", Greg Landry Author and exercise Physiologist
 
"The Best Time of Day to Walk and Exercise", Wendy Bumgardner,  Your Guide to Walking
 
"Experts Disagree on Ideal Tme of Day to Exercise", Stephanie Smith, CNN