Why Anytime is the Right Time for Fitness

Finding time to exercise can feel like a juggling act, but it turns out the good news is there’s no wrong time to get moving!

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Health Line

With our hectic schedules, finding time to exercise can be a challenge. Between managing work, social commitments and family demands, fitting in a workout often feels like a struggle; despite knowing how important it is for our health and well-being.

But when is the best time to exercise to get the most benefit?

Morning vs. Afternoon and Evening

There are several advantages to working out in the morning. For one, it allows you to get your exercise done and out of the way before your day even begins. This means you can start your day feeling energised with a boost of endorphins, knowing you’ve already accomplished something. Plus, you won’t have to stress about fitting in a workout later in the day.

While the morning may seem like the perfect time to work out, exercising in the afternoon or evening has its own set of benefits. Research suggests that your body’s performance peaks in the afternoon, with your body temperature reaching its highest point between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. This could make this time window the most effective for exercise, as your body is naturally primed for physical activity.

Early Bird or Evening Enthusiast?

However, this may not always be practical due to work or other commitments. A great solution is to incorporate movement into your day, such as a lunchtime walk or a quick, positivity-boosting yoga session, to get the benefits of exercise without interrupting your schedule.

Choosing an evening workout can allow you to get some extra rest in the morning. It also offers a great opportunity to unwind and clear your mind after a busy day, helping you shake off any stress or tension.

So what time is best?

At the end of the day, the best time to work out is whenever you can make it work for you!

Whether you’re an early bird who loves a morning run, an afternoon exerciser who takes advantage of peak performance hours, or an evening enthusiast unwinding after the daily grind, the key is consistency.

While the science and studies seem contradictory, one thing is clear: Working out is important, no matter what time of day you do it.