What Time Of Day Is Best To Exercise For The Most Energy?

There are multiple benefits to working out in the morning. First, those who exercise before starting their day have a higher likelihood of sticking to their exercise plan. Also, "The New York Times" reports that people who exercise before breakfast are less likely to develop diabetes or gain weight. While these are great reasons for exercising at the start of your day, your body might respond better to midday or late-day workouts. Your circadian rhythm determines how much energy you have during workouts and this rhythm is different in everyone.

Circadian Rhythm

Circadian rhythm is your body's natural process of ascending and descending within a 24-hour period. This rhythm governs your body's temperature, metabolism, hunger, blood pressure and energy levels. Since every person has a different sleep, work and daily activity pattern, everyone's circadian cycle is different. Circadian cycles determine your body's energy levels throughout the day.

How It Works

Exercising when your body temperature is high makes you more productive, while low body temperatures lead to suboptimal workout performances. Body temperatures progressively raise and lower throughout the day, and your individual circadian cycle determines when your body temperature is at its peak. According to the American Council on Exercise, your circadian cycle dictates your energy levels before, during and after workouts and impacts the effectiveness of your exercises.

Determining Your Body's Rhythm

Record your body's temperature every four hours for one week to determine the time of day when your temperature is at its peak. Temperatures fluctuate slightly throughout the day but should not fluctuate more than 1.5 degrees in a healthy person. If you go to bed and rise at the same time daily, you'll find it less difficult to determine your body's peak temperature. However, even with a sporadic sleep schedule, you still will notice body temperature patterns. The American Council on Exercise suggests working out within three hours of your body's peak temperature for the most energy.

Circadian Cycle Benefits

When you exercise according to your circadian cycle, your muscles are warmer and more flexible, which makes your reaction time quicker. Warm muscles and joints also experience less pressure because they move easier, which will make your workout more productive. High body temperatures also lower your resting heart rate and blood pressure. This increases your energy and strength during workouts, which can push you to work harder.