Exercise Timing
I am often asked “When is the best time to exercise?” There are many factors to consider regarding the decision of when to exercise. Here are a few:
-Convenience: Obviously an individual is most likely to sustain a steady exercise program when it is the most practical and convenient time to work out. For some, it is before work, or during lunch, or after work. Each of us has our own unique set of circumstances and responsibilities such as work, family, or other interests. Choose the best time for you and try to stick to it. Adjust the schedule when necessary and do your best to be consistent.
-Mood: All of us have varying psychological states that can affect when we are most likely to follow through with an exercise session. For some, morning sessions are the best option. For others, exercising after work is the best time. Try to be aware of your emotional state of mind and find ways to motivate yourself to exercise. Plan or speculate ahead of time when you plan on working out and use personal goals such as getting in better shape, improving your health, or becoming better at a sport to improve your motivation to exercise.
-Goals: Individual goals and strategies can affect your decision on when the best time to exercise is. For instance, if you exercise first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, you are more likely to burn a higher amount of body fat. This is because you have not yet consumed any calories and will more rapidly deplete your blood sugar levels which will lead to your body burning fat for fuel. If you goal is to increase muscle mass and body weight you might want to exercise at night. An evening workout followed by a high protein/high calorie meal would encourage your body to heal from the workout while you slept and not be depleted of calories that might be used by daily activity.
-Meals: Meal timing can also affect your decision of when to work out. Try to avoid exercising too soon after eating, preferably no sooner than 60 minutes or more after a meal. Food requires blood for digestion. Muscles also require blood during exercise. This competition for blood flow can lead to nausea and cramping.
The bottom line is that the best time to exercise is when you are most likely to be consistent and motivated. Certain factors can and will affect your decision. By being aware of them, you can design and implement the most effective program for yourself.
By Larry Schweer
Certified Personal Trainer
National Level Competative Bodybuilder
Email Larry Questions at: Guru@Paramount-Supplements.com
I am often asked “When is the best time to exercise?” There are many factors to consider regarding the decision of when to exercise. Here are a few:
-Convenience: Obviously an individual is most likely to sustain a steady exercise program when it is the most practical and convenient time to work out. For some, it is before work, or during lunch, or after work. Each of us has our own unique set of circumstances and responsibilities such as work, family, or other interests. Choose the best time for you and try to stick to it. Adjust the schedule when necessary and do your best to be consistent.
-Mood: All of us have varying psychological states that can affect when we are most likely to follow through with an exercise session. For some, morning sessions are the best option. For others, exercising after work is the best time. Try to be aware of your emotional state of mind and find ways to motivate yourself to exercise. Plan or speculate ahead of time when you plan on working out and use personal goals such as getting in better shape, improving your health, or becoming better at a sport to improve your motivation to exercise.
-Goals: Individual goals and strategies can affect your decision on when the best time to exercise is. For instance, if you exercise first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, you are more likely to burn a higher amount of body fat. This is because you have not yet consumed any calories and will more rapidly deplete your blood sugar levels which will lead to your body burning fat for fuel. If you goal is to increase muscle mass and body weight you might want to exercise at night. An evening workout followed by a high protein/high calorie meal would encourage your body to heal from the workout while you slept and not be depleted of calories that might be used by daily activity.
-Meals: Meal timing can also affect your decision of when to work out. Try to avoid exercising too soon after eating, preferably no sooner than 60 minutes or more after a meal. Food requires blood for digestion. Muscles also require blood during exercise. This competition for blood flow can lead to nausea and cramping.
The bottom line is that the best time to exercise is when you are most likely to be consistent and motivated. Certain factors can and will affect your decision. By being aware of them, you can design and implement the most effective program for yourself.
By Larry Schweer
Certified Personal Trainer
National Level Competative Bodybuilder
Email Larry Questions at: Guru@Paramount-Supplements.com
