“I don’t have time to exercise.” 

Have you ever spoken, or thought, those  words? 

If so, you’re not alone.

 

Countless surveys and studies have shown that lack of time is the most common barrier to regular exercise. I know that during my 40 years in the fitness industry this is the biggest reason people give for not exercising. An article by the American Heart Association highlights that busy schedules and the finite number of hours in a day often prevent people from prioritizing their fitness routines​.

 

In our already crammed schedule, exercise can find itself at the bottom of our priorities. If you think about it, isn’t it silly to push our health to the bottom of our priorities? I do believe that lack of time isn’t the real issue, it’s that too often we don’t make our health a priority. 

I find that people who are trying to make exercise a daily habit, have a certain time of day that they typically workout. This is a great way to be more consistent, but it may also keep you from working out on certain days. If you like to workout in the morning, but when your morning gets away, so you throw in the towel and don’t workout. I am someone who works out each morning, if something gets in my way I do try and add movement later in my day because I know I will feel better.

Today, I want to show you the importance of making time in your schedule to move your body. I also want to share the benefits of working out at different times of the day and give you some awesome workouts to try! 

 

Morning Workouts

Working out in the morning has numerous benefits that can positively impact your physical health, mental well-being, and overall daily routine.

Morning exercise can help your body to loosen up after being still throughout the night. It can also give you more energy and jump starts your metabolism, helping you burn more calories throughout the day. This phenomenon, known as the “afterburn effect,” keeps your metabolic rate elevated post-exercise. 

It can also regulate your circadian rhythm, leading to better sleep quality at night. Studies have shown that those who exercise early tend to fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep. Yes, please! 

Starting the day with exercise is also known to improve lifestyle choices. Individuals who work out in the morning often feel more motivated to keep up a pattern of healthy behaviors, such as maintaining a healthy diet, throughout the day. For more ways to start your day in the best possible way, check out our blog on 5 Essential Morning Practices. 

 

Want to start reaping the rewards of morning exercise? Here’s a morning workout video that will make your body feel ready for your day AND you will be reminded to keep your eyes on the things that really matter. No equipment needed, just you!

 

 

Afternoon Workouts

Some people find that their schedules are more flexible in the afternoon, allowing for more relaxed workout sessions without the rush associated with morning routines. Afternoon exercise can also provide a much-needed energy boost, combating the midday slump and improving alertness and productivity for the rest of the day. 

If you head to an office, lunchtime can be a great time to get in some exercise. If you pack your own lunch it will give you not only a chance to eat healthier, it will also save you time from not having to drive to go out to lunch (plus save you some $$). You can use this extra time to squeeze in a workout or go for a quick walk.

By the afternoon, your body temperature is at its highest, which can enhance muscle function and enzyme activity. Research suggests that strength levels tend to peak in the late afternoon, making it an ideal time for power and strength training. 

If your body is calling out for some strength today, try this workout that includes great strength exercises and more. Your brain will be more alert which will allow you to be even more productive for the rest of your day. 

 

Evening Workouts

For many people, evening workouts can become a habit more easily than morning or midday sessions due to fewer interruptions and a more stable routine after the workday is over. 

The after-work hours workout is also very helpful in reducing stress and improving cardiovascular health. After a stressful day, evening workouts provide an excellent way to unwind. Hormones like cortisol and testosterone reach more optimal levels for exercise in the evening. This balance in hormones can enhance the fat burning processes, making it great for cardiovascular working. Additionally, your body may tolerate higher intensity workouts better in the evening because your muscles are warmer and more flexible. 

If you’ve tried to exercise after your work day but have a hard time being consistent, you may want to try what one of my friends did. Before she left the office she would change into her exercise clothes. When she got home, before she did anything else, she would head out for a brisk walk or put on one of our workout videos. 

If you find that it’s getting close to bedtime you should avoid high energy / cardio workouts as it may make it challenging to fall right asleep. This stretch and mobility workout is perfect to do, even right before bed. I love the movements, but I also believe the message will be impactful and bring you peace when you close your eyes. 

 

As you have likely picked up, there are great benefits to morning, afternoon, and evening exercise sessions. The time of day you choose to work out ultimately matters less than the fact that you are exercising regularly. 

So… what’s the BEST time to workout?

Whatever time you will actually do a workout! We’re all different so it’s important to discover what time is best for you.  The key is to select a time that aligns with your personal schedule and energy levels,  so that  you make exercise a consistent part of your daily routine

 

What time of day do you feel most energized for a workout?