What’s Better: Morning Workouts or Evening Workouts?

Morning workouts or evening workouts – the superior time to workout has been debated for quite some time, with avid exercisers on both sides of the debate chiming in.

Both options have pros and cons, and the short answer is the best time to exercise is the one that works best for you. However, there are different benefits to both a.m. and p.m. workouts, including how they affect your sleep schedule, your appetite, and your ability to gain muscle and lose weight. 

The Benefits of Morning Workouts

One of the main advantages of morning workouts vs. evening workouts is that they can help to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is the internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, and it is heavily influenced by light exposure. Morning workouts, when the body is naturally exposed to sunlight, can help reset the circadian rhythm and improve sleep quality at night. 

Additionally, morning workouts can help to increase energy levels throughout the day and even suppress your appetite, making it easier to stay focused and productive. One study even found that those who engaged in morning workouts also moved more throughout the day. It’s also been shown that morning workouts could potentially lead to greater weight loss.

Another advantage of morning workouts is that they can help to improve cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that the body’s blood pressure is at its lowest in the morning, making it the ideal time for cardio-based exercises such as running or cycling. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke and improve overall cardiovascular fitness.

Some individuals noted in another study that evening workouts caused their sleep to get disrupted. But overall, research has shown it may be easier to stick with healthy habits if you engage in morning workouts.

Should You Make Time at Night for Evening Workouts?

Looking at the other side of the debate, evening workouts have their own set of benefits. One of the main advantages of evening workouts is that they can help to reduce stress and anxiety. 

Exercise is a natural stress reliever, and the endorphins released during physical activity can help improve mood and reduce anxiety, especially after a hard or particularly stressful day of work. 

Additionally, evening workouts can help to improve the quality of sleep (despite what some research has said previously when looking at morning workouts), as the body’s temperature and heart rate naturally decrease after physical activity, making it easier to fall asleep. This study dismisses the thought that exercise at night disrupts sleep.

Another advantage of evening workouts over morning workouts is that they can help to improve muscle strength and endurance. The body’s temperature is highest in the evening, making muscles more pliable and easier to work with. This can make performing strength-based exercises such as weightlifting or resistance training easier.

Those who exercise at night may also have better blood sugar management and insulin sensitivity.

Who’s the Clear Winner Here?

That’s a trick question. Despite the benefits of both morning workouts and evening workouts, it’s important to note that the best time to exercise is the one that works best for you. 

Some people may prefer to engage in morning workouts due to their work schedule or family responsibilities, while others may prefer evening workouts due to their natural energy levels. 

It’s also important to note that consistency is key when it comes to exercise. It’s more important to stick to a regular workout routine than to try to force your body to adapt to a specific time of day.

So, which is better for you? Try both and see whether it’s easier for you to stick to morning workouts or if you want to end your day with evening workouts. Ultimately, the choice is yours, so just make sure you’re moving your body at least once a day!