What is the Best Time of Day to Exercise?

Do you feel like you have to be a morning person to get it done?  Feel like you just have trouble finding time in general?  Not sure which time of day is better to get your exercise in, morning or afternoon?  Before eating or after eating?  

Well, honestly, anytime is appropriate as long as you’re getting good quality exercise.  

Are you maximizing your efforts with your exercise though?  

There are advantages to being a morning person.  Exercising on an empty stomach can increase fat mobilization for energy since you’ve been fasting all night.  That said, being a morning person doesn’t guarantee success in fitness.  Perhaps you just don’t have enough energy on board to get in a good workout in the morning.  In some cases, early risers can have less energy and hold onto more fat stores in the long term.  

The important things are to get a good night’s sleep (7-9 hours is recommended), eat regular balanced meals with appropriate nutrition to support your energy expenditures, and maximize your time in the gym.  If all you have is 20 minutes over lunch, use that time wisely and get in a good exercise session.  Making exercise part of your regular routine is vital to health and fitness.  Find what works for you and your schedule; make a plan and stick to it.