Morning vs Evening Workouts: Which Boosts Fitness More?

Debate Between Morning and Evening Workouts

Are you part of the long-standing debate about the best time to workout – morning or evening? Some people prefer early morning workouts to set a positive tone for the day, while others prefer evening workouts as a way to destress after a long day. So, is it more beneficial to sweat it out at the crack of dawn or as the sun sets? We’ve consulted experts to help you decide what’s best for you.

Morning Workout Benefits

Despite the struggle of getting out of bed, you’re actually in an optimal state for exercise in the morning. Your body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, naturally primes you for activities such as using the rowing machine or an elliptical early in the day. Daniel Glazer, a clinical psychologist and co-founder of the US Therapy Rooms, explains that in the morning, your body temperature and heart rate naturally increase to help you feel alert and energized. An early workout boosts feel-good endorphins and can jumpstart your focus for the day, making it a good choice for those struggling with mood or motivation issues.

Morning workouts not only increase your endorphin levels but also help manage stress by controlling the release of cortisol. Certified personal trainer and senior contributor at Gold BJJ, Alanna Kate Derrick, explains that exercise early in the day can lower cortisol levels, improving your ability to handle stress.

Early workouts can also help establish a consistent fitness routine. Cortisol plays a role in habit formation, so a morning when cortisol levels are naturally higher might be ideal for committing to a fitness regimen. It can also positively impact your sleep patterns. Eloise Skinner, a London-based psychotherapist and group fitness instructor, suggests that morning exercise, especially in natural light, can establish a natural circadian rhythm, which is beneficial for those looking to reset after traveling or dealing with jet lag.