Many people want to know the absolute answer to this question so that they can get the most from the time they put into exercise and thus lose weight faster. But unfortunately there is no cast-in-stone answer; optimal training times vary from individual to individual. Some so-called scientific studies have found that individuals who rise early to train stand to gain more since their bodies continue burning calories long into the day. But other studies have shown that hormone levels and body temperature peak at around 6pm for the average human being, making this the time you will be able to give your workouts the most intensity. The best thing is to try working out at different times and note your performance levels and the number of calories you’re able to burn (from cardio machines). Here are some pointers you can consider as you ponder your timetable:
Why some prefer an early morning workout?
Waking up early to work out before you head off to work can be a challenge as your body temperature is at its lowest at that time. Apart from the fact that psyching yourself to get out of bed at this time is not easy, your muscles are stiff from the cold. Failure to warm up properly before getting into the thick of a workout can easily lead to injury. But if you can overcome these obstacles and make a habit out of training at the crack of dawn, there are great benefits in store. For one, there are virtually no distractions at that hour as everyone else is probably still sleeping. This makes it easier for you to focus and get the most out of your sessions. Those who have gotten used to the early morning routine always talk about how much more energized and mentally alert they feel throughout the day as a result. And it’s true. If you are very committed to your training another advantage of working out first thing in the morning is that you give your exercise priority and you place it above any other activity of the day. This, plus the fact that people tend to tire less quickly in the morning than in the evening will see to it that you train harder and burn more. It is one thing to work out before you go to the office and a totally different thing to work out after a long stressful day.
Why others would rather exercise in the evening?
While it’s good to exercise when no one can distract you, you are less likely to find a partner to train with should you fix your workouts in the morning. That is unless you’re willing to fork out for a personal trainer. In the evening, you benefit from muscles that are already warm and ready to go, so you can afford to spend less time warming up with less risk of injury. And what better way to vent your pent up frustrations from the office than with a vigorous gym session at the end of the day?
The tendency to binge-eat at the dinner table will also be curbed by an evening workout, meaning you take on less calories at the time when you’re going to bed and therefore don’t need them. However, putting an evening workout in itself is not easy as that hour is rife with distractions. And depending on what you do for a living, you may routinely find yourself too sapped at the end of the day to put in even 50% at the gym.
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Add a Comment3 Comments
Nice read. I believe that the time of day is irrelevant. If you have a graveyard shift job and don't get off till 7am will you work out when you get off or will you go straight to sleep? Ultimately the goal that many of us are trying to achieve is weight loss. Only 1 factor stands out to many of us when it comes to losing weight and that is consistency! Being consistent in losing weight, a career, being a mother etc..... will ultimately produce the results you are hopefully looking for. Another site I view often to check out diet and weight loss advise is http://harrisreviews.com . This site has many quality articles from popular programs today.
August 18, 2012 - 3:19amThis Comment
Hello Veronica,
You present both exercise time options very well. I agree, trying both times of day and finding what works for you is the best advice.
Thank you for sharing with the EmpowHER community.
Maryann
August 17, 2012 - 4:20pmThis Comment
I am glad you found the article useful.
August 20, 2012 - 10:48amThis Comment