When is the best time to exercise?

April 22, 2016

Most would agree that daily activity is important. However, many disagree on the best time to exercise. Do you go first thing in the morning? Do you wait until after a long day to blow off some steam? Or, do you head to the gym in the middle of the day between classes or meetings? What' key is finding the time and sticking to your plan. Make sure you're thinking of the whole week, too; The American Heart Association recommends at least 2 hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate-intensity or 1 hour and 15 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity physical activity. Here' the case for working out at various times. Energizing morning workouts: Are you an avid supporter of exercising in the mornings? Here are the benefits you most likely swear by:

• You get to avoid distractions that come up later in the day. It' hard when things come up and you miss your window of free time.
• Depending on the intensity of your workout, you'll be likely to burn more calories all day long.
• Typically, the early-morning classes aren't as full, which means you don't have to worry about missing your favorite class because there aren't enough spaces.
• You start your day on a strong note. When you check off the first item on your to-do list, you have the opportunity to clear your head and be ready to take on the rest of your day.

Afternoon pick-me-up cardio: do you swear by the midday workout? Here are a few reasons to keep it up:

• During the afternoon, your body temperature is at its peak and your muscles are warm and primed for activity. It' a great time to tackle a strength routine and best for avoiding injury.
• Studies show midday cardio can help boost productivity.
• In addition to productivity, many have experienced a two-hour creativity boost immediately following a workout session, which can help if you're going back to work or a project after.
• It helps you re-energize for when you're ready to take a nap. Exercising gives you an energy boost when you're feeling drained during the afternoon.

Evening sweat sessions: Many people swear by the benefits of working out at night, including the following:

• In the evening, there are usually more classes available, which can add variety and excitement to your regimen.
• You're more likely to find a friend to go with you, which always makes the experience more enjoyable.
• After a long day, gym time can be the perfect way to de-stress. Research confirms that you are more likely to not feel as stressed after a tough workout class. This might be a far better alternative to hitting a happy hour!
• There' more time in the evening for a longer session. Depending on when you go, you won't feel rushed to get to your next appointment or event like you might experience in the mornings.

Sometimes you can't dedicate an hour at a certain time of day to work out. Consider breaking it up by adding in walking time for at least 30 minutes (e.g., 10 minutes in the morning and 20 minutes in the evening). No matter when you work out, it' most important that you squeeze in at least 30 minutes of cardio, even while traveling or when life gets hectic. And, as you plan to stick to your 30 minutes of exercise , no matter when it takes place , don't forget the importance of recovery. Consider adding recovery products such as stretching straps and yoga blocks to your repertoire so you stay focused on your fitness goals.

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