Obviously it’s vital that we workout on a regular basis to build muscle and to get stronger but when is the best time to workout? I’ve seen this question being asked around the gym a lot lately so thought I would shed some light on the subject. Before we get too carried away with such a minor factor in our training let me tell you this. The best time for you to workout is when you have time to workout. If you have a hectic work schedule and don’t get home till late then the best time for you to workout will probably be in the morning or late evening.
When is the Best Time to Workout?
This will be different for everyone as a lot depends on your lifestyle and job. As long as you do not come under the impression you need to fit your workouts in at a certain time of the day for them to be effective you will be fine. Workout at any time you like. The most important thing is that you make time for your workout and do this on a regular basis. I’m sure there are some ridiculous scientific studies out there telling you that working out at x time is the best for building muscle. Do not listen to these ridiculous claims. The best time to workout is at a time that suits you.
Having said this, if you are flexible and have the luxury of choosing what time you will workout during the day here are some points that will help you:
Energy. Energy is obviously important if we are going to workout at a high intensity and push ourselves. Therefore I would recommend you ask yourself this question, what time of the day do I feel the most energized? Again, people are likely to be different. Some may wake up with bundles of energy whereas others don’t feel fully awake until midday. If you feel you have more energy in the morning then feel free to workout in the morning. If you don’t feel energized in the morning then workout in the afternoon. Simple.
Focus. It’s important to be focused in our training so we can concentrate on our workouts, sets and exercises without our mind wondering. Don’t be letting your mind wonder over at the fit girl on the treadmill until you’ve finished your workout! Or at least wait until your rest periods between exercises! A greater focus will lead to a better workout so hit the weights when you’re energized and wide awake.
Food. Another important point to take into consideration is your food intake. It’s likely that most of us will feel far more energized and focused once we have some solid food inside us. Now I know there are people who actually train first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. I’m not going to knock this training method because I have never tried it but it makes sense to have some solid nutrition in you for the day before an intense workout.
Having breakfast and one other meal should be enough for you to hit the weights hard. Some people may feel even more energized after 3 or 4 meals before hitting the weights. Again it’s your choice, each person will be different so act on what feels right for you.
Hydration. Your body is always at its best when it’s hydrated. Is your body sufficiently hydrated first thing when you wake up? Most probably not. You’ve just gone 7-10 hours without food and drink so the chances of your body being hydrated at this time are slim. Studies show that not being sufficiently hydrated can affect physical and mental performance. If you are being picky with your workout times you may want to be fully hydrated before you step foot inside the gym.
Summary on the Best Time to Workout
The main thing to remember about workout time is that it is nowhere near as important as training, diet, rest and consistency. In fact it’s such a small minor factor in your training it’s not worth thinking about. If you have the luxury to plan your workout at a specific time during the day then great go for it. Follow the above tips to make your workouts as productive as possible.
If you can only fit your workouts in around work either first thing in the morning or later on at night then fine, don’t worry about it. You are likely to get the exact same results as someone else who has the luxury of choosing a workout time. The main thing is that you do your workouts and perform then consistently. Do not worry too much about workout time. Compared to other training factors it’s not important!
