When is the Best Time to Workout?

“I don’t have time” is the number one excuse people give. Instead of saying I don't have time try saying it's not a priority and see how that feels. Try it: "I don't exercise because my health is not a priority." If this phrase doesn't fit well, that's the point. Changing our perception reminds us that time is a choice. If you’d like to get started working out I’m going to cover the pros and cons to exercising at different times of the day so that you can find a time that fits your lifestyle and schedule.

Working out in the Morning

Benefits

1. The rest of the day is yours

When you exercise in the morning, you are free to do whatever you want for the rest of the day.

2. Gyms are less crowded

Here’s the best part about working out early in the morning – there is not competition for equipment.

3. You have more energy to fire up the day

After you drag yourself to the gym at the crack of dawn, you will walk out of there with more energy and focus than when you stepped in.

4. You become more consistent

The ones who see results are the ones who are consistent and morning people are definitely more consistent than people who postpone their workouts later in the day. This is because as the day starts to unfold, unexpected events come up that can cut into or even eliminate gym time. If you want to workout more consistently, get your workout in first thing in the morning before life happens.

Downsides

1. You’re a zombie on the floor

Of course dragging yourself out of bed before the sun rises is why most people struggle with morning workouts. To combat morning zombie, make sure to get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep.

2. Your preparation starts the night before

Your workout may happen in the morning but your preparation starts the night before. If you’re a last minute person and not a planner, you will struggle in the mornings to get out the door in time.

Working out in the Afternoon/Evening 

Benefits

1. Your body performance is at its peak
When you’re training in the afternoon, your warm ups can be shorter because your body temperature increases throughout the day. Higher body temperature leads to increased flexibility, overall muscle strength, and increased endurance. At the same time the muscle growth hormone testosterone also peaks in the afternoon which is great for maximizing resistance training.

2. An accountability partner is easier to come by

If you’re someone who needs accountability partner to make it to the gym consistently, it could be easier to find a workout buddy in the afternoon than it is in the early morning. There is more flexibility in scheduling during lunch or after work as oppose to early mornings because it could cut into your sleep.

3. You have more class options

If you’re a class person or like to attend group classes, there are more class options in the afternoon/evening times versus mornings giving you more flexibility in your schedule.

4. It’s a great way to de-stress after a long day
Exercise is probably the last thing you want to do after a long day at work. But, your body will thank you after.

Downsides

1. Consistency could take a back seat

Postponing your workouts till later in the day means you are more likely to skip your workouts because of an unexpected event. Also, you’re also more likely to be low on energy after a long stressful day.

2. Crowded gyms and classes

3. Additional preparation required

Working out after work means you need to be more mindful of your meals and make sure that you have prepared additional snacks to help you get through your workout.

It also means lugging around an extra bag with your gym clothes and other essentials.

Conclusion

At the end, it doesn’t matter what time of day you workout because your body will adjust to your schedule as long as you find a time to go to the gym consistently. It’s important because consistency is what’s going to get you results.