Everybody needs exercise. Whether you’re trying to gain weight, lose it or build muscle, exercise is necessary for a healthy lifestyle. But when is the best time to exercise? Most people have a hard time exercising after a hard day at work and some don’t even have the urge to exercise in the first place. The best time to exercise is in the early morning. Here are seven reasons why.
Hormonal advantage
In the early morning, your hormones (like testosterone) are at their peak. Exercising in the early morning allows you to better tap into your hormones compared to later in the day when your hormones are settling down. With your hormones peaking, you’ll also have an easier time building muscle mass.
Easier to turn into a routine
You’re less likely to skip your work out if you make it a part of your daily routine. There are fewer distractions in the early morning. There are more distractions in the afternoon and evening, ranging from friends to family, to your computer, and television. Later in the day, you’ll also feel much more fatigued and less motivated, making exercise feel more like a chore. Getting your workout done in the morning frees your mind of the worry of needing to exercise later on.
Burn more fat
Morning exercise can burn 20% more fat if you work out before eating breakfast. This is of course especially useful if you’re trying to lose weight. After working out, remember to refuel. It’s never a good idea to starve yourself after finishing a grueling morning routine. Not eating until lunch can also cause you to overeat, which is counter-intuitive if you’re trying to lose weight.
Improves metabolism
Working out in the morning will increase your metabolic rate. This allows you to burn more calories for the rest of the day. This, however, is largely dependent on the type of workout you want to go with. Still, if you’re trying to lose weight the improved metabolism will work wonders for you.
Easier to focus
Working out in the morning means that you have other things to do after your routine. This usually means either work or school. Knowing that you have to be somewhere important in a few hours can translate to an increase in focus. Exercising in the morning will also help you start your day with a bit more energy. This energy can then be used to improve focus and productivity at work or school.
Improves your mood
Exercise releases endorphins. Endorphins are hormones that make you feel good. Working out in the morning can also fill you with a feeling of accomplishment, which can help you feel better for the rest of the day. You’re also less likely to feel stress after a good workout.
Can improve your social life
Exercising in the morning frees up your schedule for the rest of the day. You don’t have to worry about missing out on your routine if your friends invite you for a drink because you’ve already finished said routine.
If you’re struggling with exercise, then trying to establish a morning workout routine just might be what you need. Most people struggle with exercise not because they lack motivation but because they just don’t have the time. Morning exercises are great because there are fewer distractions in the morning and because your mind and body are more geared for activity. Your hormones are also at their peak, giving you a boost in strength and improving your metabolism.
