When is the best time to train?

This is a question that I get asked often and my answer is very simple, “when is the best time for YOU to train to be consistent, effective and fits into your life style” . It is great to be active anytime, every moment spent training will make a difference to your health, energy levels, fitness, muscle tone and definition, de-stressing and burning of calories.Research has found that training first thing in the morning is more beneficial. But please remember that the most important part of reaching your fitness/health goals is to be being consistent over time. So finding the best time of day that suits you, your lifestyle and responsibilities is essential. 

Mornings

Mornings are my personal favourite time to train; I would also like to say that despite being a personal trainer I am not a natural early morning person, so I have had to work on this. My routine starts by leaving my work out clothes beside the bed, setting the alarm with only a few minutes to put my gear on. So in the morning I simply get up and train! I love knowing that I have honoured my commitment to my health first thing. Then I can continue my day energised and focussed on the day ahead.

Extra bonuses

• See the sun rise – divine
• Great for parents – you can really have this ‘you’ time with no guilt or concerns for your children. Hopefully they are all sleeping and safe with your partner.
• Your workout is done by 9am
• The day ahead can start with you having already completed your commitment to a healthier you
• Time constraints are less of an issue.
• Can use lunchtime to fulfil personal commitments 

Lunchtime

Lunchtime is a great time to train especially if you travel long distances to work. Have children at school or you simply can’t get up in the morning. Lunchtime training doesn’t make your day any longer, you don’t have to get up earlier, get home later and it is a great way to make your lunch ‘hour’ effective and valuable .

Extra bonuses

• Time effective
• Saves money – no shopping at lunchtime
• Can encourage better eating habits at lunch
• Great way to manage stress at work
• Keep your afternoons energised – no 3pm ‘tired hour’ when you exercise at lunch
• The sun is out Winter, Autumn, Spring and Summer so it feels safe to train outside

Evening

Evening training is something that I personally find hard. Yet, I have spent many years of training at night in my life as a top gymnast. Many of my clients love training at the end of the day as they find it a great way to wind down after work. They are able to walk in their front door totally focussed on family life. Springday Founder, Georgie Drury plays netball 2 nights per week and loves it.

Extra bonuses

• Helps with quality of sleep
• Great way to leave work on time
• See the sunset
• Ideal for group training, sports training etc – logistically easier to get everyone at together
• Great for family activity – evening walk or game cricket at park
• Watch less TV
• Last opportunity to fit in a work out

If you are unsure of what time of day suits you, try them all for a couple of weeks. It will soon become apparent to you what training time works for you. No matter what time you decide to train, you need to pencil it into your diary. Commit to your training like you would commit to a business meeting. Then tell your family, assistants, and business partners that this is YOUR meeting for your health. To be successful with your goals it requires commitment over time, so find a life style that suits you for a life time.

Writen by Bev Carter, Springday Expert

Special offer: To find out what brings joy into your life; and how to make simple choices that will bring great positive outcomes to your life call Bev Carter for complimentary session

Back to Exercise

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