AM vs PM Workouts
As we approach the New Year, many people will embark upon a new goal around fitness and a new exercise routine. This leads to the age-old question, is it better to work out in the morning hours or later in the afternoon? There is a lot of misinformation and opinions on both sides of the argument.
When it comes to exercise, it's crucial to consider your lifestyle and determine the most convenient time for you to work out. While factors such as body temperature and motivation may fluctuate slightly, prioritizing your convenience is key.
Fitness World, a local gym with 16 locations in the greater Vancouver B.C. area, recently published a blog article discussing the pros and cons of morning workouts versus afternoon workouts.
This article will assist you in determining the most suitable time for you to exercise, taking into account your specific needs. By finding the perfect workout routine that fits your schedule and helps you reach your fitness goals, you can obtain the desired results. Furthermore, we will furnish you with additional resources to delve deeper into this matter so you can get started on the best routine for you.
Some Advantages of Exercising in the Morning
Morning workouts offer a wide range of benefits, extending beyond just physical fitness. From a technical perspective, exercising early in the day presents a great opportunity to boost metabolism, jumpstart calorie burning, and create an optimal environment for fat loss.
Engaging in a workout routine in the morning also helps cultivate discipline and consistency, transforming it into a daily ritual. Additionally, the peacefulness that accompanies morning workouts adds an extra layer of tranquility to the experience. This calm atmosphere allows for moments of self-reflection and goal-setting, as the world is still beginning to wake up.
Now, let's delve into some more advantages of incorporating morning workouts into your routine.
Increased Metabolism
Morning workouts are an excellent way to engage various muscle groups and boost your metabolism. Whether you prefer cardio, strength training, or a combination of both, these workouts help your body utilize energy more efficiently and burn calories more effectively.
Improved Consistency and Discipline
Creating a regular morning workout routine may seem challenging at first, but it is quite rewarding and promotes positive habits. Over time, this routine becomes a solid foundation that enhances not only your physical well-being but also your dedication to leading a healthier lifestyle, both mentally and emotionally.
More Time for Post-Workout Recovery
Morning workouts are an excellent way to kickstart your day with a burst of energy. Not only do they provide an immediate boost, but they also contribute to post-workout recovery. By exercising in the morning, your body has ample time throughout the day to recuperate and carry out essential functions, such as muscle repair and growth.
Boosted Mood and Productivity
Exercising in the morning offers numerous benefits for both your body and mind. One of the advantages is the release of endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers that can uplift your spirits and enhance your overall well-being. Moreover, the positive effects of morning exercise can extend throughout the day, increasing your mood and productivity.
Effective Morning Workout Plan
Exercising in the morning requires careful planning for a successful and energizing workout. Here are a few important factors to consider:
Prepare the night before: It's crucial to plan your workout ahead of time to boost motivation and avoid feeling too tired in the morning. If you need specific equipment, make sure it's easily accessible. This way, you can smoothly transition from your bed to an invigorating exercise session.
Get proper nutrition and hydration: Proper nutrition and hydration play a vital role in enhancing your physical abilities during your morning workout. They also contribute to optimal recovery after exercising, allowing you to fully benefit from your routine. By prioritizing mindful nutrition and hydration, you set the stage for a more energized and efficient workout, promoting overall well-being throughout the day.
Warm up effectively: In the context of morning workouts, where your body temperature tends to be lower after a night of rest, warming up effectively becomes even more important. A thorough warm-up routine is crucial for preventing injuries and maximizing the effectiveness of your exercise session.
Set achievable goals: Setting achievable goals is key to keeping your workouts engaging and purposeful. Whether it's completing a certain number of repetitions, increasing your running distance, or mastering a new exercise, having goals helps you stay motivated. Remember to adjust your goals as your fitness journey progresses.
To get the most out of your morning workouts and maximize the benefits they bring to your overall health and well-being, it's important to consider these factors.
Afternoon & Evening Workout Benefits
Exercising in the afternoon and evening has numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. As the day progresses, body temperature increases and muscle flexibility improves, reducing the risk of injuries and enhancing overall performance. But the advantages of working out later in the day go beyond just the physical benefits. Let's take a closer look at some of the favorite benefits of including afternoon and evening workouts in your routine.
A Few Benefits of Afternoon Exercise
Exercising in the late afternoon offers several advantages, such as optimizing body temperature and reducing the risk of injury. During this time, the body naturally experiences a rise in core temperature, which improves muscle flexibility and blood flow. This, in turn, helps to reduce stiffness and potential injury that may occur earlier in the day.
Not only does exercising in the late afternoon optimize body temperature, but it also enhances strength and endurance. As the day progresses, our physiological functions reach their peak, resulting in increased levels of strength and endurance. This makes afternoon and evening workouts ideal for those who want to push themselves and achieve optimal performance.
In addition to the physical benefits, exercising during the afternoon also provides much-needed stress relief and an energy boost. As the day goes on, stress levels tend to increase due to various responsibilities and obligations. However, afternoon workouts release endorphins, which are known as the body's natural stress relievers. This not only helps to alleviate tension but also promotes a sense of well-being and provides the necessary energy boost to combat afternoon fatigue.
By incorporating late afternoon exercise into your routine, you can take advantage of optimal body temperature, enhance strength and endurance, and enjoy the stress-relieving and energy-boosting benefits that come with it. There are new studies that show afternoon exercise may yield the most benefits for longevity. So why not make the most of your afternoons and prioritize your health and well-being?
Afternoon Workout Considerations
We understand that not everyone enjoys working out in the afternoon. However, for those who excel during this time or have flexible work schedules, afternoon workouts can make a significant difference! It's important to consider a few lifestyle factors that can affect your overall performance and enjoyment when exercising in the afternoon.
Time Management
Incorporating afternoon workouts into your daily routine can be made easier with effective time management. To streamline this process, it is important to plan your day ahead of time and find a time slot that works well with your schedule.
Begin by determining a specific window of time in the afternoon that matches your energy levels and obligations. Take into account the length of your workout, the time it takes to travel to and from the exercise location, and any other preparations you may need, such as eating the right food.
Pre-Workout Nutrition
Pre-workout nutrition is extremely important for maximizing energy levels and performance during afternoon workouts. To get the most out of your workout, it's best to have a well-balanced meal or snack about 2-3 hours before your scheduled exercise session. This gives your body enough time to properly digest the food, giving you a steady and sustainable source of energy.
Staying Motivated After a Long Day
We know that it can be tough to find the motivation to work out after a long day. But having a plan in place can help. It's also important to do exercises that you enjoy, as that can be more motivating. Think about activities that interest you and match your preferences. Maybe you'd enjoy a dance class, a scenic run, a strength training session, or a calming yoga practice!
Planning Out A Nighttime Fitness Routine
If you are someone who works during the day or tends to have extra energy at night, consider creating a nighttime fitness routine. Although morning workouts are more popular, don't disregard the idea of exercising at night. It is quite simple to create a routine that suits your schedule. Here are a few tips to help you begin:
Creating a consistent schedule is key to sticking to your fitness goals. Choose specific nights for your workouts to establish a routine and hold yourself accountable.
Including stretching or yoga in your nighttime routine can work wonders for helping your body relax. It not only helps you unwind mentally but also relieves any physical tension or tightness.
When it comes to evening workouts, consider opting for lower-intensity exercises. This will help you wind down and promote relaxation before bedtime, ensuring a more restful night's sleep.
Avoid intense workouts too close to bedtime as they can leave you feeling energized and make it harder to fall asleep. Additionally, try to reduce your intake of stimulants like caffeine or sugary snacks in the evening to ensure a good night's sleep.
Follow these simple tips to create a nighttime fitness routine that suits your needs and allows you to make the most of your energy during the night.
Start Your Fitness Journey
If you're looking to get started on your fitness journey, a local fitness center is a fantastic option. Not only can they assist you in creating a customized plan, but they can also provide the encouragement and drive you need to stay committed. One excellent example is a local gym in Vancouver, B.C., Fitness World, situated in the Marine Gateway area. This gym boasts a variety of amenities, making it an outstanding choice for individuals seeking a comprehensive workout experience.
Conveniently located near the Canada Line and bus loops at Marine Gateway, you'll have easy access to everything you need for a satisfying workout. Whether you prefer to join a lively fitness class in their spacious dedicated studio or work out on your own in the cardio theatre, weight room, or functional training spaces, they have you covered.
After your workout, treat yourself to a relaxing session in their HydroMassage loungers. With a wide range of Fitness Classes available, including yoga, kickboxing, Pilates, Bollywood, and Zumba, there's something for everyone. FitnessWorld fosters an inclusive community centered around fitness, which is why it is widely regarded as Canada's favorite gym.