Exercising first thing in the morning can be the ideal way to start your day on the right note. By exercising in the morning, you may be inspired to make better health choices throughout the day. While schedule-wise, morning might not be the most convenient, it can be a way to sneak in extra exercise when you lead a hectic lifestyle. That said, there are a few steps you may want to take before a strenuous early-morning workout.
Benefits
Morning exercise can be extremely beneficial when executed properly. For some, exercising in the morning helps to cut down on excuses you might have for not working out. If you typically exercise in the afternoon or at night, you might notice that your schedule and responsibilities often compound after lunch, meaning you aren't able to get to the gym as frequently as you'd like. Carving out time to exercise as soon as you wake up in the morning allows you to check exercise off your list and start your day on the right track.
Disadvantages
Some experts believe that it's actually more beneficial to exercise in the afternoon. Dr. Phyllis Zee of Northwestern University tells CNN that your body temperature spikes between 2 and 4 p.m., making for better muscle strength and more calorie-burning potential. However, since the difference in energy expenditure in the morning and the afternoon is similar, you can choose which is better for you. If you're a night owl or have busy mornings, exercising as soon as you get out of bed might not be an option.
Nutrition
Even if you are anxious to get out of bed and exercise, it's a good idea to eat a snack first. Without sufficient energy in your body after the fasting period during sleep, you might start to feel dizzy or lightheaded as you exercise. A snack that contains both complex carbohydrates and protein can help give you the energy you need to power through a workout. Then, a healthy breakfast eaten less than an hour after your workout can help your recovery process for the most effective workout possible.
Starting a Routine
If morning exercise sounds like a beneficial and convenient practice for you, you might need time to get used to your new routine. By getting at least seven to nine hours of sleep each night and waking at the same time each morning, you can help facilitate a natural body rhythm that makes it easier you to exercise in the morning. Make a goal to try morning exercise every day for one week and evaluate your success and how you feel at the end of the week to see if it's a practice you can maintain. You should also discuss any new exercise regimen with your doctor, particularly if you have been sedentary or have health concerns.
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