Does it matter what time of day to work out?

Question

I've started my workout routine on a treadmill for an (1) hour each day after work around 5p. Some people say it's better to work out in the morning becuz it jump starts your metabolism. Does it really matter what time of the day you work out? U burn the calories no matter what anyway right?

Answer 1

Different things work for different people. The most important thing in scheduling a workout is what other events in your day you schedule the workout relative to--especially watching where you work out relative to meals and sleep.

You should avoid eating a large or heavy meal too soon before a workout--such meals take a lot of energy to digest and your body cannot effectively focus on both digestion and working out. Similarly, you need to give your body some time to cool down after a workout. It's generally beneficial to eat a small amount of carbohydrates before your workout though, and shortly thereafter too--but give some space before or after a big meal.

Some people claim that exercising shortly before you plan to go to bed can make it harder to get to sleep, and can detract from your quality of sleep. They say it's best to leave a few hours between when you stop working out and when you go to bed. I've read other stuff that contradicts this though--you want to find what works best for you. If you exercise close to bed and are still able to sleep easily, then you should keep it up. If it is interfering, then change your routine.

If you live in a hot climate and exercise outdoors, it can be better to exercise very early in the morning when it is coolest; similarly, in cold climates it may be more pleasant to be outside later. Since you are exercising indoors, it's not an issue.

The most important thing is to find a routine that works for you. I know some people who exercise in the morning, and I know more who do it in the evening. If the time works for you, is convenient, and feels good, you should probably just keep doing it.

Good luck.

Answer 2

In my opinion morning is the best time as it does boost your metabolism, but like you say you burn calories no matter what and the most important thing is that you're exercising. Make sure you do it at a time that's good for you so that you'll stick with it..if you do it at a time that you hate, you'll be less likely to keep up with the routine

Answer 3

It's a good idea to start out in the morning, but this isn't convenient for most people. So any time of the day is fine.

Answer 4

Congrats on working out!

5PM is not unusual, as many people hit the gym after work. The only time excersise should be avoided is RIGHT before bed.

Good luck!

Answer 5

forget what people say. are you a morning person?? if not, you will be more prone to injury at that time of day. if late afternoon works best for you, then keep up the workout.

Answer 6

Before breakfast is optimal but the fact that you do exercise is what is important. We applaud and cheer you for that.