Exercise is one of the healthiest and most recommended activities, because it keeps us in shape, makes us feel good, helps us relax, and prevents health problems. But for the sport we practice to be really effective, you have to dedicate time to it. And not only that, but also choosing the best time to exercise.
To do this, it’s best to base it on your personal experience and the specific fitness goals you’re pursuing, as these can influence the training program that works best for you.
If you’re just starting a physical activity routine and are in a highly motivated phase, any time will likely be a good time. For some, it’s the morning; for others, the afternoon works best.
A good idea is to exercise with a friend, as working as a teammate is more enjoyable, and we can take responsibility for mutual commitment to this activity. In this case, we will have to look for the best time to exercise as a team.
Advantages of Exercising in the Morning
Exercise early may have other advantages for reluctant or less enthusiastic athletes. If you wait until later, you weigh the exhaustion of the whole day, and you’re more likely to find excuses not to.
Exercise first thing in the morning (before breakfast) helps people burn more stored body fat.
Another potential benefit for those who exercise early is that chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin, can be used, which are released during physical activity, to feel good.
Some research also suggests that people who exercise in the morning are more careful with their food choices during the day.
Exercising in the Afternoon
For others, an afternoon training has certain advantages. If you’re not the ones who get up early, you’ll probably prefer to exercise later.
Another aspect to consider is that joints and muscles are more flexible in the afternoon than in the morning.
In addition, people often experience a certain downturn around three o’clock in the afternoon, which can be a good time to exercise as a way to revitalize.
Eating, drinking, and sleeping
It’s best to wait at least three hours after a hearty meal before exercising. But if we’ve eaten little, we just have to wait an hour.
High-trained athletes who want to improve their performance prefer to eat a small carb-rich snack, such as a banana or a slice of whole-wheat toast, shortly before their workout. Carbohydrates provide fast fuel for short, high-intensity workouts.
When exercising, hydration is very important. You have to drink a lot during the day and not just before you do the exercise.
Also, sleeping at least seven hours each night benefits our health in many ways and helps make exercise more effective.
Setting goals
Finally, novice athletes will find it very useful to divide their exercise into short periods. Even five minutes at a time counts for their target of 150 minutes a week. Once we can exercise for 30 minutes, we can increase the speed and intensity, which increases calorie burning and health.
