A well-honed fitness routine is a medley of personal preference, proven efficaciousness, a thoughtful diet, adequate rest…the list goes on. But when exactly is the best time to work out? If you’ve found yourself wondering if your a.m. routine is doing more for you and your body than your p.m. routine, you’re in good company. And, as it turns out, the choice of fitness timing does make a difference.
“In my opinion, the best time to exercise is when it fits into your schedule consistently—the hardest part is showing up,” says Heather White, founder and CEO of wellness and fitness program Trillfit. Fitness coach Angela Manuel-Davis agrees, and adds that the way you feel at a given hour matters, too. “If your workout is performance-based, it’s best to workout when you feel your best,” she says. “Over my years in this space, I’ve learned that our fitness journeys are not one size fits all. You have to learn your body and what works best for you.”
Choosing the best time of day for your needs, fitness goals (think weight loss, lower blood pressure, better sleep, muscle building), favored fitness routine, and with your metabolism in mind is the best means of scheduling the most successful workout for you. (Note: certain low-impact exercises, like Pilates, can be done at any time of day, so work those in whenever you can find a moment). Should you need some guidance in determining whether a dawn or dusk sweat session is best for you, read on.
Is It Better to Work Out on an Empty Stomach?
It’s difficult (read: impossible or unwise) to discuss fitness without including diet and nutrition in the conversation. And while some claim that working out prior to eating can help with fat burning (a posited upside of the morning workout), it’s likely best to enjoy a little snack before exercise to bolster your energy levels and blood sugar regardless of timing. Kirsch suggests an apple with nut butter or a banana, reserving heartier meals for your post-workout nosh.
“Think about pre-workout meals as the fuel in your gas tank; you want to be balanced with protein and carbs to energize your workout,” says White. “For post-workout meals, consider muscle recovery and choose complex carbs that will replenish your energy stores.”
The Benefits of Morning Exercise
Starting your day off with a workout sets an effective foundation—and it may help with weight loss, as well. “Morning workouts will kickstart your metabolism and improve your mood for the day,” says White, who recommends cardio or even full-body strength training. “A.m. routines can focus on energizing and activating your body for the day ahead.”
