Most of us fix our exercise time depending on our work schedule. We squeeze any amount of time whenever we can to work out. But when can we get optimal results?
Morning workout
Anthony Hackey, a professor in the department of sport science at the University of North Carolina says that morning exercise-especially on an empty tummy -- is the best way to burn stored body fat. It is the ideal way to lose weight as you draw more energy from your fat reserves. He adds that the body’s hormonal profile at that time of the day predisposes you to better fat metabolism.
Research also suggests that morning exercises can reduce your appetite throughout the day. You will end up being more careful on your intake options and choose healthier foods. Furthermore, if you are not an early riser, morning exercises can help you become one. You will feel more alert in the morning, positioning you for a more fruitful and productive day at work. You will also find yourself going to bed early, ensuring enough time to rest and wake up early the next day.
Morning exercises have also been attributed to better mental health and stress reduction throughout the day. Because of the early morning sweat and ripple effects of runner’s high, you will find yourself able to tackle stressful situations better.
Afternoon workouts
If your morning schedule doesn’t allow time for exercise, do not force it. Working out in the afternoon is a good second choice. Afternoon workouts can give that performance boost to avoid the end of day fatigue. A study in the Journal of Physiology reported that intense workout between 1 and 4 pm can have the same effect as early morning exercise. So try to squeeze in a quick walk in the afternoon to help you perk up and refocus.
Evening workouts
This time is most convenient to a majority of us since we have more time after work. However, evening exercise can re energise your body and make it a bit difficult to sleep early. Exercising between 7 and 10 pm translates to later bed times. To counter this, do not workout closer to your bed time. Try to incorporate stress relieving exercises such as yoga to help you sleep better.
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