The Best Time to Exercise: Morning, Evening, or Midday?
Are you a morning person or a night owl? When it comes to exercise, the time of day you choose to work out can have a significant impact on your performance and overall well-being. The debate between morning and evening workouts has been ongoing for years, with proponents of each citing various benefits. So, when is the best time to exercise?
According to sports medicine experts like Dr. Andrew Jagim and Jake Erickson from the Mayo Clinic Health System, there are advantages to both morning and evening workouts. For morning exercisers, starting the day with a workout can provide a sense of accomplishment and set a positive tone for the day ahead. The release of endorphins post-workout can also serve as a powerful ego boost. Additionally, morning workouts eliminate the need to worry about finding time for exercise later in the day, freeing up your afternoons and evenings for other activities.
On the other hand, evening workouts may be more appealing to those who struggle to wake up early or prefer to exercise when their body is primed for performance in the late afternoon and early evening. Optimal muscle function, strength, and endurance are at their peak during this time, making it ideal for high-intensity activities like interval training or speed work. However, evening exercisers may face challenges in balancing time commitments and mental energy, especially after a long day at work.
If you’re someone who hits the dreaded afternoon slump around 3pm, a midday or early afternoon workout could be beneficial. Recent studies have shown that working out in the afternoon may reduce the risk of heart disease or early death more than morning or evening exercise, particularly for men and the elderly.
Ultimately, the best time to exercise is the time that fits into your schedule and aligns with your energy levels and preferences. Consistency and adherence to a regular exercise routine are key, regardless of the time of day you choose to work out. Whether you’re a morning person, a night owl, or somewhere in between, finding the right time to exercise is essential for optimizing performance, recovery, and overall well-being.
So, experiment with different workout times and listen to your body to determine the ideal timing for your exercise routine. Remember, any time of day is better than no exercise in reducing the risk of death from any cause. Stay active, stay healthy, and find the time that works best for you.