Exercise tips: Morning or evening? Which is the best time to work out?

Research shows that working out in the morning can speed up your metabolism, keep your blood pressure in check, and help you lose weight (Image: Canva)

When embarking on a fitness journey, one common question arises: What's the optimal workout time? The benefits of morning and evening workouts vary, and the ideal timing for you hinges on your lifestyle and fitness objectives.

Morning workouts: A fresh start to the day

Starting your day with exercise can make you feel energised and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. People who exercise in the morning often say it boosts their mood, helps them focus better, and even improves how well they sleep. Research shows that working out in the morning can speed up your metabolism, keep your blood pressure in check, and help you lose weight, says fitness trainer Marcelle D’Costa. The expert has worked with some of the A- list Bollywood stars in the past and says that even they prefer to work out early morning.

Plus, if you exercise before eating breakfast, your body might burn more fat because it uses up stored fat for energy when your glycogen levels are low, he says.

But, waking up early to work out can be tough, especially if you're not a morning person. And if you don't eat something before exercising, you might feel tired and more prone to getting hurt. So, it's important to have a light snack before your workout and take some time to warm up properly.

Evening workouts: Unwinding into fitness

If mornings aren't your thing, working out in the evening might be more your style. As the day goes on, your body warms up and your muscles work better, which can make your workout more effective, says D’costa.

Evening workouts can also help you relax after a busy day and might even improve how well you sleep, contrary to what some people think. But, there are challenges too. It can be hard to find time to exercise after work, and crowded gyms or feeling tired can make it tough to stay motivated. Plus, if you do high-intensity workouts too close to bedtime, it might be harder to wind down afterward.

Consistency is key

There's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best time to work out. It's all about finding what works for you and sticking with it. Whether you prefer mornings or evenings, the important thing is to make exercise a regular part of your routine and also follow same window, says D’costa.

Pay attention to how your body feels and adjust your schedule as needed. By making exercise a habit, you'll enjoy the benefits of a healthier, happier lifestyle, no matter when you choose to work out.