“When’s the best time to work out?” People ask me this all the time. Well, everyone has different times of the day when they feel the most energetic and might get a good workout in…when their biological clock makes them feel strongest. However, studies show the best time to workout is before the sun comes up before you start your day. Here’s why…
People who exercise in the morning…
- Have the most consistency with their workouts
- Have the highest energy
- Get the best sleep
- Get the best results
- Are more likely to maintain weight loss
Don’t Leave it up to Chance
Even though you might have the most energy in the middle of the day or in the evenings, you’re more likely to get your workouts in when you do them first thing in the morning. I know, I know, you might not feel like waking up that early – even I have a hard time getting out of bed for my workouts some days – but if you don’t get it done first thing, you leave it up to chance.
While you might have every intention to exercise after work or later in the day, there are so many things that can come up and keep you from getting your workout in. Don’t leave it up to chance. When you do it first thing every morning, when everyone else is asleep, you ensure you get it in every day and make it a habit.
A Great Way to Start Your Day
A workout is also a great way to start your day. You’ll jump start your energy and metabolism and set the tone for the rest of your day. And, you’re likely to be in a better mood because of it.
Morning Workouts = Better Sleep
When you exercise every morning, your body gets in a routine. In the evenings, you’ll be ready for bed and are likely to fall asleep faster because of the activity you got in early in the day.
And a better sleep leads to better results and easier weight loss maintenance. Studies show that those who get efficient sleep (7-8 hours per night) not only have better results, but they’re also more likely to keep the weight off.
When you don’t get enough sleep, your hormones cause you to crave more food and also hold on to fat, thus keeping you from losing weight or causing you to gain it.
Results and Maintenance
With all of these things combined – consistent workouts, improved energy, and better sleep – not only will your early morning workouts help you to lose weight, but they will give you better, faster, and longer lasting results.
What time is your best time to work out?
Mani Songoimoli says
Awesome advise. I’m going to try working out in the morning rather than later during the day. I’m praying for GREAT RESULTS!!!
Peter portlock says
I would love to workoiut before work but I am up at 4am as it is…To me anytime is a good time…Mine happens to be right after work
Danine says
Chalene, do you eat before your morning work out? What is the best way to fuel up for such an early workout?
susan says
Love your comments, would be great to see more people in your turbofire that our around our age I am 49, and get up everymorning at 5 a.m. to do your workout . I have done a work out at that time for the last ten years and have never gained an ounce . I think it would be great if you promoted people of an older age that getting older does not mean you have to turn into a frump, and that going through menopause does not give you an excuse to start gaining wait, or decide your old! To me its a whole new beginning I just started a nail course at blanch mcdonald in Vancouver, I was scared I would be the oldest student, well there our two other women my age! My thought on that is women our age our too scared to step outside the box as they have been programed to think they are too old! It would be great if you gave a few insperational tips on all of this!
susan says
P.S I guess I should say I am 5 foot 2 inches and weigh 105 Pounds and that is the same weight I have been since age 20. And I have had two children.
Lillie Moss says
Great advice, Chalene. I’m deaf, I bought shake bed alarm to wake me.I need to do this! You’re amazing.Thank a lot!
Susan Jensen says
Charlene,
I am 51 years young and on my second week of the Push month on Charlean Extreme. I love it! I also love Turbo Jam. Thank you for all your motivation, you always make me smile and I love to see you every morning! Sending you all my best.
Susan
Desa says
I love you Chalene. Really. Thank you for everything you do. You are one of my heroes and I am so thankful that you have the courage and love and determination to get out there and be who you are, so the rest of us can light our own candles from your endlessly, brightly burning lantern.
Rebecca Hall says
Hi, I’ve started to work out in the morning and wanted to know if it’s ok to have my breakfast afterwards. If I roll out of bed and eat first thing I don’t want to work out while my food is digesting. I’ve read conflicting opinions…..help!!
Love your work outs and motivational CDs
Thanks-
Liz Piper says
Hi Chalene,
I would like to say that I love your workouts! You keep your workouts fun and you are a great motivator! I have had stomach issues now on and off for the last 4 or so years now. I have decided to make a change by eating healthier and exercising. I have lost 40 pounds and kept the weight off for 2 years. I still want to lose 15-20 pounds to be at my goal. I have plateaued but have worked really hard to maintain my weight. My major fear is gaining that weight back. I am nurse and I am about to make changes in my shift. I am going from working five days a week, eight hours/day to working 3 12 hour shifts…7pm-7am. I have heard and read many articles that working night shift cause weight gain and this terrifies me. I currently work out 5-6 days a week (3 days of weights and the other days doing cardio). Do you have any suggestions/advice on how to avoid weight gain working nights?
Thanks so much,
Liz Piper