What time of day do you workout? In my experience and what studies have shown, the best time of day to train is in the morning. Training in the morning opens your body up to a list of benefits that can enhance both your physical and mental well-being. Health perks include improved sleep, higher metabolism, better energy, skin glow and better focus throughout the day.
I know, fitness can often feel like a task and while not everyone is a morning person, training in the morning can be one of the best things you do for yourself. When you commit to waking up early and prioritizing your health, you’re setting the tone for the rest of the day.
This mindset of dedication and determination often carries over into other areas of life, such as work, relationships and personal goals.
Here’s a few things you can do to help you get out of bed early.
- Gradually shift your sleep schedule to getting to bed earlier.
- Establish a consistent bedtime and wake up time.
- Have everything ready the night before so it eliminates morning fuss and creates an easier transition into your workout.
- Avoid screen time while in bed before falling asleep.
- Take a step outside in the sunlight right when you wake up. Exposure to natural light in the morning is a source of vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and immune function.
When it comes to training, the best thing you can do for yourself is be consistent in your fitness routine. The commitment to yourself is what gets you faster results. Think of your goals (your “why”), choose how many days a week you want to train, time length of your workouts, and start your workouts at your own pace.
Working out isn’t a one-size-fits-all and whatever your fitness level is, a good morning workout routine can be created to most fitness levels. If you are limited on time, that’s OK, even a 15-20 minute routine at home can keep you healthy and strong. It’s a huge misconception that unless you dedicate an hour or more at a gym you wont get fit.
Simple bodyweight movements can be done in your home like squats, jumping jacks, pushups and mountain climbers. Movements like these can be inserted in your morning functional workout. Here’s an example of what a circuit would look like:
- 10 Jumping jacks
- 10 Squat with heel raise
- 10 Push ups
- 20 Mountain climbers
- 20 Plank punches
- Repeat 5 times
- Stretch/cool down
No matter what type of workout you choose for your morning routine, be sure to properly warm up beforehand so that you’re not jumping into exercise with cold muscles and stiff joints. Jog in place for a few mins, walk up and down the stairs a few times, just as long as it’s something that has your blood and muscles moving before your workout.
Ashley LaMorte is a nationally certified fitness instructor and has been in the fitness industry close to a decade. Over the years, she has gotten the opportunity to instruct group X boot camps at gyms and train private clients from all walks of life, all over the Bay Area. She now has her own mobile fitness business LaMorte Lift. Learn more at LaMorteLift.com.
