Why You Should Consider Working Out in the Morning
By Paul Rothbart
Regular exercise is an important element of maintaining good health. Fitting a workout into a daily schedule that includes a job, family, and other responsibilities can be challenging. Although exercise is effective at any time of day, you should consider working out at the start of your day. You may have to get up earlier, but the potential benefits can be well worth the effort. Here are some facts about morning exercise.
It Boosts Your Metabolism
Exercise increases metabolic rate and your body burns more fat. This occurs no matter when you work out, but by exercising in the morning, your body will carry this boost throughout the day. You will burn more calories all day long, no matter what you are doing. You can lose weight faster and keep it off with greater ease. A morning workout also tends to increase energy levels all day long.
You Get an Immediate Sense of Accomplishment
Sticking to an exercise regimen is something to be proud of. By working out first thing in the morning, you have a sense of having accomplished something of import, regardless of how the rest of your day goes. This boosts self-esteem and confidence, breeding further success. It can be the springboard to a productive day.
It May Be the Optimal Time for Exercise
For most people, the time of peak performance is mid-afternoon. However for many, that is the middle of the workout day with no opportunity to exercise. After work, one is generally too tired to get in an optimal workout. That leaves early morning, before beginning work. You haven't done anything yet to cause fatigue and once your body gets used to it, you may find morning to be the best time for an effective workout.
It Can Increase Your Appetite for Breakfast
A good workout makes you hungry. You may find yourself eating bigger breakfasts. This is a good thing. Consuming more calories in the morning gives you more time to burn them off. Studies show that people who eat a hearty breakfast tend to make better decisions throughout the day. They are also less likely to snack between meals.
You May Burn More Fat
Exercising on an empty stomach may seem like a bad idea, but there are benefits. A recent study found that by exercising before breakfast, you may burn up to 20 percent more fat. To get the most out of this boost, eat a solid breakfast before continuing your daily tasks. Waiting until lunch can cause you to consume more calories, thus negating the extra fat burning.
Getting in a daily workout is not always easy. Try waking up an hour earlier and exercising first thing. You will get it out of the way and may find it to be more effective than working out later in the day.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Bowling Green, Ky.