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Healthy eating and exercise for life

When is the Best Time to Exercise?

We all want to reap the health benefits of physical activity and burn calories when we exercise.  Some people prefer to exercise in the morning while others enjoy an intense workout at the end of the day.  So, when is the best time to exercise?  Let’s take a look at the possibilities.

Morning

You might find it’s easier to exercise in the morning because there are fewer interruptions and distractions.  If you’re an early riser, this might be the best time for you to fit a workout into your day.  If you’ve got a hectic schedule then set your alarm a few minutes earlier and get up and get moving!  In addition, morning exercise may give you added energy to get you throughout the busy day. 

Early Afternoon

If you don’t like getting up earlier than you have to, a workout in the early afternoon might be best for you.  Exercise helps relieve stress and will rejuvenate you for the rest of the day.  Even if you don’t have time for a “full” workout, run or walk up and down the stairs a few times to get your heart rate up.  Take a few moments from your busy day to do something good for your body. 

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

There are some people that get a surge of energy later in the day.  You may find that exercising later in the day helps clear your mind and help you blow off some steam.  If you’re not an early bird and can’t find the time to exercise in the early afternoon, consider exercising later in the day.  Be careful not to exercise too late in the day because it might keep you up later than you would like.  Try to exercise at least four hours before your bedtime.

The best time to exercise is the time that works best for you.  Each person is different and only you can determine what works best for your body.  Find a time to squeeze your workout in and then stick with it.  Make exercise a priority!  If you don’t, you may find yourself making excuses and skipping your workouts altogether.  Finding the time that fits your schedule will allow you to get the most out of exercise.