We all know that physical activity is imperative to creating a healthy, well performing body. However, “finding” the time to get the work in can be a struggle for some. Is there a better time of day to workout? Are there benefits to morning, afternoon or evening workouts? Let’s dive in!
Before we talk about the “best time of day” to workout, first we need to establish that being successful in anything requires the creation of a habit. This means you must be able to do the task repeatedly. The simple answer is, the best time to workout is the time you can do it consistently over time. Everyone has different schedules, daily demands, and obligations, so finding days/times that work specifically for you is key!
The important thing to remember is that your personal “best time to workout” might not be your favorite time, but the only time you have available. For example. If you hate waking up early, but don’t have time in the afternoon or evening to workout, you’re going to have to get used to getting up early to get the work in. Not sure how to find what time you have? Check out THIS blog on creating time in your schedule for the things that are important to you.
Once you’ve established the days and times that you can workout, stick with them! It’s important to “guard” this time and make it a priority to form the habit.
What are the Pros and Cons of each time block? Let’s have a look.
Early Morning
Everyone has their own definition of “early” morning. I like to think of this time between 4a-7a.
Pros:
Not a lot is happening this early in the day that takes time in your schedule
Traffic is extremely light
Working out in the morning gives some people energy throughout their day
You accomplish something productive right off the bat
Wakes your body/mind up and prepares you for the day ahead
Cons:
You must go to bed early to make getting up at this time work (you need 6-8hrs of sleep!)
If you’re not used to waking up early, just getting out of bed can be the hardest part
At first, you will be tired mid-day until your body adjusts
Late Morning to Afternoon
I define this time block as 10a-3p
Pros:
Most people are at work so the gym is empty
Some studies show you are stronger during this time as your body has “warmed up” throughout the day
Gives you time in the morning to accomplish other tasks
When your workout is done, you have plenty of “day” left
Cons:
For most people, this time block is unrealistic if you work a traditional “9-5”.
Can be easy to skip the workout if your morning tasks bleed over in time
Evening
I define this time block as 6p-9p
Pros:
Just like above, you are stronger later in the day
Can easily make the commute to the gym after your workday versus just going home (pack your gym clothes and bring them with you)
Better for people who have later schedules and can’t get up early
Better for people who have long commutes to work in the morning
Cons:
Can be more tired from a full day
Easy to make excuses to skip as it’s the end of the day
Gyms are busy at this time
Requires more planning to pack all your gym gear before hand
Will require you to go to bed later
There you have it! The pros and cons of each time block. Again, the best time to workout is the time you can make it happen consistently. Look at your days and plan your workouts. Just like any other important meeting or task, you must make it a priority in your day if you want to be successful!
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