6 Responses to “Does It Matter What Time of Day You Exercise?”

1. dri on May 21st, 2009 2:03 am

   This is a good question. But, I’m not sure there is any research that suggests a clear answer. I’ve read that exercise can usually be performed at a higher intensity in the late afternoon when the body’s temperature and hormone levels peak. However, I think that it all really depends on your preferences and you’ll lose more weight if you just exercise at a time that is best for you. I prefer to work out first thing in the morning, before I’m confronted with the demands of the day. However, there are those who find it easier to exercise in the afternoon. So exercise when and where you will most enjoy it, which will make you most likely to remain faithful to your routine.

2. Stacy on May 21st, 2009 9:08 am

   As a working mom, I exercise best in the morning before the kids wake up. That way I only have to shower and apply my make-up once a day.

3. Carmen on May 21st, 2009 9:13 am

   I have read Body for Life and there it states that it is better to exercise in the morning and then not eat for 1/2 hr. in order to lose weight. However, I have also heard contrary comments–that you should eat right after exercising. I have also heard that it is best to exercise when your mind/body is getting tired –that way you get reenergized with your workout. All in all, as long as you can get in your workout you will be good to go!

4. Brandi C. on May 21st, 2009 1:17 pm

   I read that you burn the most fat by working out first thing in the morning. Since you have not eaten a big meal yet, your body goes to your fat cells for energy and it just melts away. However, even though that is the best way to get rid fat, I think exercise should be a lifestyle. Which means, you should work out at the best time for YOU whether that’s morning, afternon, or night. Also, building muscle helps rev up your metabolism as well. Good Luck!

5. audrey i. on May 21st, 2009 2:10 pm

   The key to all of this is working out, eating a total number of calories and relaxing and enjoying life. If you are committed to working out 4-6 days a week, you are ahead of a majority of Americans. As important as working out, is mixing it up with cardio and weight training or resistance classes. I think you should figure out the number of calories that works for your to maintain or lose- whichever– and stick to that number. For me, I have to eat a lot of protein or I get too hungry. I also do like to eat protein after working out, 1/2 bar or chicken breast. I also try to limit my carbs vis a vis sugary foods. That old Nike statement still works best– “Just Do It”.

6. Geoff on September 27th, 2011 8:03 pm

   I am a personal trainer, and the best way to answer this question is dependent on what you do during your workouts. If your routine includes intense weight lifting, personally i find it best to work out later in the day after work, or school because your energy level is much higher. Cardio based workouts are actually pretty good in the morning because it helps get your heart rate up and ready for the day. For the people who say work out in the morning before you eat anything, if your goal is to maintain a nice physique, not just burning body fat but maintaining muscle mass, i would advise against this because your body NEEDS fuel in the morning because it went at least 11-12 hours without a meal. If you work out under those conditions, your body will start using your muscles as energy which is not good. Bottom line, it doesnt matter what time of day you work out. As long as you train and diet correctly

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