Is There a Best Time to Workout?

Written by Alicia Zelada

Tuesday, 08 June 2010 16:45

As a Personal Trainer since 1986 I have been asked all sorts of questions ranging across all topics. One of the most common questions I get is what time should I workout for the best results? The studies have shown that both morning and evening workouts are beneficial but for different reasons. In the morning it is ideal because the mind is fresh and the blood flow to the brain and body gets you energized for the day. In the evening it is good because working out can help improve the quality of your slumber. This article will give you reasons why each is the best time to workout.

So, Is There a Best Time to Workout?

If your goal is to lose fat then working out in the morning before you break your fast with breakfast, in other words, workout on an empty stomach. The best time to perform cardiovascular workouts is in the morning and then you can do strength training in the afternoon however if you are like most people who cannot do two-a-day workouts, alternate between cardiovascular and resistance training. If you lift weights in the morning just be sure you are warmed up properly to avoid injuries.

Not sure when is best for you, try all hours you are able to exercise and see which feels best. You may try the wee hours of the morning, like 5am and see how that feels. As an experienced trainer, I can attest that the 5am crowd tends to be a lively bunch. These are the people who have to get in and get to work so they are driven and focused. Lunch time is an option if you work for a large company with an in-house gym or if you have a flexible schedule and have time to workout and get showered and back to the office. After hours might be best for you if you are not a morning person and cannot get away midday. The evenings tend to be more crowded at health clubs but that also means classes have more participants which means more energy and more fun.

Although not related to the “best time to workout,” another way to keep yourself motivated to get to the gym is to vary your workouts. Do cardio, resistance training, functional exercises and try some group classes like kickboxing, yoga and cycling. Check out some great DVDs

Golden Rule When It Comes to Best Time to Workout

Any time is better than no time. You are not sure of your goals therefore you are not going to workout in the morning to achieve maximum fat loss, you have a flexible work schedule therefore lunchtime is an option, or not; and you do not care about the numbers of other gym goers so nights are not appealing, or not. If there is no preference, then just go workout. A workout at anytime trumps no workout at the best time.

Christina Leon, CPT, AFAA, NASM, NCSF, and National Fitness Presenter

Last Updated on Monday, 02 May 2011 18:33