The Best Time to Exercise: When It Works for You
The Best Time to Exercise: When It Works for You
One of the most common fitness questions is: When is the best time to exercise—morning, afternoon, or evening?
The answer is simple yet personal: the best time to exercise is when it works best for YOU.
While some studies suggest slight advantages to exercising at specific times of day, the key to success is consistency, not the time on the clock. So, let’s address the benefits of exercising at different times of the day so you can determine what works for your lifestyle and goals.
Morning Exercise: Starting the Day Strong
Exercising in the morning is ideal for many people because it eliminates the possibility of distractions later in the day. I enjoy working out in the morning to “check it off my list” before anyone or anything can derail my plans.
Benefits of Morning Exercise:
Fewer distractions or competing priorities.
May help set a positive tone for the day.
Can improve focus and energy levels for the rest of the day.
However, not everyone is a morning person. If you struggle to wake up early or have responsibilities like getting the kids ready for school, don’t worry—there’s no need to force it.
Midday Movement: A Productive Lunch Break
For those who prefer to break up their day, lunchtime can be a fantastic time to exercise. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with sedentary jobs, as it helps offset long periods of sitting.
Tips for Lunchtime Workouts:
Schedule at least half of your lunch break for movement.
Consider walking, yoga, or even a gym session if your schedule allows.
Use this time to reset and re-energize for the second half of your day.
Having a workout buddy or joining a group class can make midday exercise more enjoyable and help you stay consistent.
Afternoon and Evening Workouts: Ending the Day on a High Note
If mornings and lunch don’t work, afternoon or evening workouts are great alternatives. Many enjoy exercising after work to decompress or wind down from the day.
Pros of Evening Workouts:
A great stress reliever after a long day.
More flexibility for longer or more intense sessions.
Some studies suggest strength and performance peak later in the day.
If you prefer evening exercise, be mindful of intense cardio or heavy lifting right before bed, as it may impact your sleep. However, everyone is different—some people find it doesn’t affect them.
Late-Night Fitness: It’s an Option Too
With the rise of 24-hour gyms, exercising at unconventional hours has become a viable option. If midnight workouts fit your schedule or energy levels, go for it! The key is making sure you’re still prioritizing adequate sleep and recovery.
The Ultimate Answer: The Time You’ll Do It Consistently
The best time to exercise isn’t determined by research or others’ opinions—it’s about what works for your schedule, energy levels, and goals. The most crucial factor is making it a non-negotiable part of your routine. Block it off in your calendar as an appointment with yourself, and honor that time like you would any other commitment.
Tips for Scheduling Exercise
Evaluate your energy patterns. Are you more energetic in the morning or later in the day? Plan your workouts accordingly.
Experiment. Try exercising at different times to see what feels best for your body and routine.
Be flexible. Life happens. If your usual workout time doesn’t work one day, adjust and fit it in elsewhere.
Schedule a Call to Personalize Your Plan
Need help finding the right time or routine that fits your life? Let’s work together to create a plan that enables you to prioritize your health and fitness goals. Schedule a call with me today.
What time of day do you like to exercise
Real World Nutrition Refreshed: I am revitalizing and updating my archive of blogs and re-publishing them. Stay tuned as I review, update, refresh, and re-share these posts to provide you with even more valuable information on nutrition, health, and overall wellness—and keep things timely. A portion of this blog was initially posted on December 28, 2021, and is updated here.
