Each person has a different prime workout time. There’s no right or wrong time, since it’s based on your internal clock. Do you jump out of bed in the morning, ready to face the day, or are you constantly hitting the snooze button, finally dragging yourself out of bed? The most important thing you can do is simply start a workout program, even if you have to adjust the time later for a time that works better with your schedule and your body.
Some people love working out before leaving for work, others find it better at lunchtime or after work.
There are benefits for every time of day. For those that choose the first thing in the morning, not only do they get to check it off before the day gets crazy, there are physical benefits. You’re fasting when you sleep, so if you workout when you first arise, you’ll get the benefit of working out on an empty stomach. Your body will be using stored fat for energy. It can train your body to burn fat more efficiently. To ensure you don’t break down muscle tissue, drink a protein shake or eat a small amount of protein and carbs, like peanut butter and apple, a half hour before working out.
If you want to train for aerobic events or improve your endurance, make sure you have adequate stores of glycogen.
If you’re training for a specific event, such as a marathon that requires endurance, working out at noon, the late afternoon or early evening can be your best bet. Your muscles and liver have the maximum amount of glycogen at that time. It happens after you’ve consumed a full meal with carbs, protein and fat two to three hours earlier. That store of glycogen ensures you won’t run out of energy during your exercise routine.
If you want to build strength and do power lifting, you won’t do your best when you first arise.
If you’re expecting to do your best when you’re pumping iron, don’t expect to do it when you first jump out of bed. Your body temperature is lower when you sleep and it takes a bit of activity before it rises. Also, the discs in your back are filled with fluid and that also goes back to normal after you’ve been up a while. Give your body time to wake up if you’re doing strength training, especially if you have back problems.
- No matter what time is your best, once you find it, be consistent. If you schedule your workout at the same time every day, it will become a habit. Make sure you treat your workout as you would any appointment.
- Make sure your workout time works with your schedule. If your mornings are rushed, but you always have time after work, it makes sense to exercise then.
- If you love the feeling of relaxation working out brings after a long stressful day, that’s the best time for you to workout. Some people actually find that the later they workout, the easier it is to sleep. Others find it makes sleeping difficult if they workout too late.
- Don’t forget to grab something light to eat a half hour before a strenuous morning workout to supplement depleted glycogen. You’ll still burn fat, but have the energy to maximize your effort.
For more information, contact us today at Next Level Fitness