Finding the Best Time to Exercise

Have you ever wondered when the best time to work out is?

Are workouts more effective in the morning, just after you wake up? Or do you burn more calories and lose weight if you stop at the gym on the way home from work.

Here’s what I think – it really doesn’t matter.

What matters is that you make time for exercise.

For the past couple of years, I’ve been lifting weights until well past 9 p.m. after I teach a 60-minute Zumba class. I’ll admit that I’m pretty wiped out after my class. And as much as I would love to head home and end my day relaxing, I also know that I’m already at the gym. My kids are home, fed and happy to be with their dad.

Why wouldn’t I take advantage of this opportunity to get two workouts completed?

So many people tell me they don’t exercise because they don’t have the time. Or they don’t like working out at night because it’s cold, or too dark or they’re tired.

But maybe we’re just being too picky about when we go to the gym.

I say the best time to exercise is when you can.

Alice Warchol is a freelance health blog writer and fitness instructor.

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