Everyone is different when it comes to what time of day to get their workouts in. Some people prefer early mornings to kick start their day, and some people prefer to end the night with a good sweat session. Whichever you choose give yourself a pat on the back because you still put in the work and got it done! Many times, we don’t always get to choose when we can workout depending on our work, school, and family life. You always hear the saying “the early bird gets the worm,” but in the case of exercising that is not necessarily true. I always get asked what time of day is best for working out? The answer is simple. Pick a time that works best for you and your long-term fitness goals. Although, morning and evening workouts do require different nutritional habits.

            Personally, I enjoy early morning workouts. I am definitely a morning person who enjoys beating the sun up. Most days I do not have to be to work until later, so making sure I get my morning workout in is key. I have noticed a difference in my workouts and nutritional habits when I have to alternate between what time of day I choose to workout. Early morning workouts require a good night sleep. If I know that I am going to exercise in the mornings then I always go to bed early, making sure I get at least 7-8 hours of sleep. When my body is well rested it makes waking up early so much easier. Due to waking up early, I do not eat anything before I go to the gym. I drink a bottle of water on my way, but working out on an empty stomach allows me to push myself harder in my workouts. If you cannot workout on an empty stomach then I suggest eating a banana or Greek yogurt before! Working out early has many benefits like getting your workout out of the way rather than trying to convince yourself to go to the gym after a long work day. Morning workouts help jumpstart your metabolism for the day, and you are more positive/alert during the day.

            Most of us do not like to beat the sun up because we need our sleep. We work full time and have busy schedules, and often times are only able to get an evening workout in. If you decide that evening workouts are best for you then you need to make sure that you are fueling your body right throughout the entire day. Get a good breakfast, eat snacks that are filled with the right nutrients, a hearty lunch, and making sure you are drinking enough water. If these things are not being followed then you will not have the energy to workout after a long day, and it will become easier to talk yourself out of exercising. I know that when I am hungry I cannot workout, or if I do not drink a lot of water throughout the day, I get a headache. Whichever time of day you choose to get your workout in, make sure you listen to your body. Do what works for you, but make sure you are properly fueling your body depending on what time of day you chose!