There has long been a debate about whether it is better to work out in the morning or in the evening. There are individuals who prefer to get their exercise done in the morning to feel good throughout the day as endorphins kick in, while others favor an evening workout to shake off the effects of sitting in front of a screen for hours. So, which is more beneficial? We turned to experts to find out.Benefits of a morning workoutStarting the day with exercise has its perks. Despite feeling groggy after hitting the snooze button, your body is actually at its alert peak in the morning due to its natural rhythms, known as the circadian rhythm. “Circadian rhythm research offers some intriguing insights,” says Daniel Glazer, clinical psychologist and co-founder of US Therapy Rooms. “Exercising in the morning can help boost feel-good endorphins and promote focus for the day ahead, which is particularly beneficial for clients dealing with mood or motivation issues.”Exercising in the morning naturally increases endorphin levels, the hormones responsible for making us feel good, providing a welcome energy boost for the day. A morning workout also helps in managing stress by regulating the release of cortisol. “Exercising early in the day has been proven to reduce cortisol levels throughout the rest of the day,” explains Alanna Kate Derrick, certified personal trainer and senior contributor at Gold BJJ. “By jumpstarting the body with movement upon waking, we establish healthy cortisol patterns and improve our ability to handle stress.”In addition, working out in the morning can help establish a routine. Cortisol has been found to play a role in habit formation, so taking advantage of naturally higher cortisol levels in the morning can make it easier to stick to a consistent fitness regimen and reset the body for better sleep at night. “For those seeking to regulate their sleep schedule, exercising in the morning, especially with exposure to natural light, can help establish a natural circadian rhythm,” says Eloise Skinner, a psychotherapist and group fitness instructor based in London, “which is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with jet lag or seeking to reset after traveling.”
Ian Hitchcock/Getty ImagesBenefits of an evening workoutAs endorphins can help you feel good throughout the day, they’re also a handy way to help you sleep at night. “Working out after a long day provides valuable stress relief by enhancing relaxation,” says Derrick. “The physical activity serves as a healthy outlet to unwind worrying thoughts and relaxing tight muscles.”
