What is the best time to exercise? | – Times of India
Yes, there are certainly rules, but they can be tweaked.Similarly, determining the best time to exercise can depend on various factors, including personal preferences, lifestyle, and specific fitness goals. While there is no universally perfect time for everyone, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of different exercise times can help individuals choose what works best for them.
Early morning is often said to be the best time to workout
Exercising in the early morning has several distinct advantages. For many, starting the day with a workout sets a positive tone and establishes a sense of accomplishment. Early morning exercise can boost metabolism, enhancing calorie burn throughout the day.
Studies suggest that morning exercisers tend to have better adherence to their routines, partly due to fewer distractions and schedule conflicts. This is especially beneficial for individuals with busy schedules, as mornings often offer uninterrupted time for a workout.
Morning workouts can also improve mental clarity and mood. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, which can enhance mood and reduce stress levels throughout the day. Morning exercise may promote better sleep patterns. By engaging in physical activity early, individuals may help regulate their circadian rhythm, potentially leading to improved sleep quality and a more consistent sleep schedule.
Challenges with morning workouts
However, early morning workouts are not without challenges. For those who are not naturally inclined to rise early, waking up before dawn to exercise can be difficult and may affect overall sleep quality if it results in insufficient rest. Body temperature and flexibility tend to be lower in the morning, which might increase the risk of injury if proper warm-up routines are not followed.
You can exercise in the afternoon as well
Exercising in the afternoon, between 2 pm and 5 pm, offers unique benefits that align with the body’s natural rhythms. Research suggests that body temperature and muscle function are optimized in the late afternoon, which can enhance physical performance and reduce the risk of injury. Muscles are warmer and more flexible during this time, allowing for more effective workouts and potentially better results in strength training and endurance exercises.
Increase Focus and Productivity Through Box Breathing Exercises
Afternoon workouts can also serve as a valuable break from the daily routine, offering a mental reset and increased productivity. For those who experience afternoon energy slumps, a workout can provide a boost in alertness and focus, improving work performance and mood. Exercise in the afternoon can help manage stress levels accumulated during the day, contributing to a more relaxed evening.
If you have a busy life in office, afternoon workout might not work for you
One potential drawback of afternoon exercise is scheduling conflicts. Work, family commitments, or social obligations may interfere with the availability of time for a workout. Some individuals may find it challenging to maintain consistency with afternoon workouts due to unpredictable daily schedules.
If you don’t have time in your schedule, workout in the evening
Evening workouts, typically performed after work or in the early evening, have their own set of advantages. Exercising in the evening can be a great way to unwind and relieve stress accumulated throughout the day. For those who prefer to exercise later, evening workouts can fit well into busy schedules, offering more flexibility compared to early morning sessions.
Evening exercise can also benefit performance, as the body is fully awake and prepared for physical activity. Studies suggest that strength, endurance, and aerobic capacity may be higher in the evening, leading to potentially more effective workouts.
Evening workouts may impact sleep for some individuals
Exercising too close to bedtime can interfere with the body’s ability to wind down, potentially affecting sleep quality. It is important to complete high-intensity workouts at least 1-2 hours before bedtime to allow the body to relax and prepare for sleep. Some individuals may also face challenges with motivation in the evening, particularly after a long day of work.
Finding the right time to exercise
The best time to exercise is highly individual and can depend on various factors, including personal preferences, daily routines, and fitness goals. Key considerations for choosing the optimal exercise time include:
- Choose a time that fits into your daily routine and aligns with your natural energy levels. If you are a morning person, early workouts might feel more natural. Or if you feel more energetic in the afternoon or evening, these times may be more suitable.
- Consistency is crucial for achieving fitness goals. Select a time that allows for regular, uninterrupted workouts. Whether it’s early mornings, afternoons, or evenings, maintaining a consistent exercise schedule is more important than the specific time of day.
- Align your workout timing with your fitness objectives. For weight loss, morning workouts might provide a boost in metabolism throughout the day. For strength training and performance, afternoon or evening sessions might offer enhanced physical capabilities.
- Consider any health conditions or concerns. For individuals with sleep disorders or high stress, morning workouts might help establish a better routine and improve overall well-being. For those with busy schedules, evening workouts might offer a more practical solution.
- Take into account factors such as gym hours, class schedules, and social commitments. Choose a time that accommodates these factors and enhances your overall exercise experience.
