Experts agree that exercising in the morning is generally the best time of day to work out for logistical, effectiveness, and health reasons. Research has shown that exercising in the morning can help with weight loss, with one study finding that exercising between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. was associated with a lower body mass index than exercising at other times of the day. Morning exercisers were also more likely to have healthier habits overall, such as consuming fewer calories and consistently working out at the same time every day. Exercising in the morning can also help kickstart your metabolism and set a positive tone for the rest of the day.
There are many benefits associated with morning exercise, including the release of endorphins that help improve mood, and burning more fat when working out on an empty stomach. People who exercise in the morning tend to feel good about accomplishing a workout early in the day, and it can help set a positive tone for the rest of the day. Morning exercises also tend to have better health outcomes, such as reductions in belly fat, blood pressure, and stronger leg muscles. Additionally, morning exercisers are more likely to adhere to an exercise routine and manage their weight effectively compared to those who work out in the evening.
On the other hand, exercising in the afternoon has been linked to a lower risk of premature death from all causes and heart disease compared to working out in the morning or evening. These benefits were particularly seen among older adults, men, people who were less physically active, or those with pre-existing heart disease. It is believed that afternoon exercise may benefit from enhanced recovery of systolic blood pressure after exercise in the late afternoon compared to the early morning. Afternoon exercisers may also engage in more comprehensive workouts that include both cardio and strength training, resulting in greater health benefits overall.
Evening workouts have their own unique benefits, with sedentary people with obesity who engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in the evening experiencing more stable blood sugar levels throughout the day. Heart-pumping exercise in the evening has been associated with reduced mortality and cardiovascular disease risk, particularly for individuals with obesity. Evening exercise has also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood pressure, and increase muscle strength and endurance. Additionally, exercising in the evening can help reduce stress and make for a relaxing end to the day.
Overall, the best time of day to work out ultimately depends on personal preference, schedule, and health goals. Each time of day has its own unique benefits and advantages, with morning exercise being ideal for kickstarting the metabolism and setting a positive tone for the day. Afternoon exercise can promote better overall health outcomes and reduce the risk of premature death, while evening workouts can stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Regardless of the time of day, consistency and adherence to an exercise routine are key to achieving fitness goals and reaping the many benefits of physical activity.
