Exercising regularly is essential for weight loss. However, the time of day you work out can also impact the effectiveness of your weight loss program.
In this article, we will explore the best time to exercise for weight loss, based on scientific research and expert opinions.
Early morning workouts
Working out in the morning, before your day gets busier, can help you stay on track with your fitness goals.
A study published in the Journal of Physiology found that people who exercised before breakfast burned more fat during the day compared to those who worked out later in the day.
Experts suggest that working out on an empty stomach can increase your metabolism, which means you are burning more calories throughout the day.
Additionally, morning workouts can boost your energy and mood, helping you feel more alert and productive at work or throughout your day.
Lunchtime workouts
If you find yourself too busy in the morning or prefer to exercise during your lunch break, you may wonder if this is the best time for weight loss.
Some studies have shown that midday workouts can be helpful for weight loss, as they can reduce afternoon hunger and cravings for unhealthy food.
The trick to effective lunchtime workouts is to make them short and intense. Doing a 30-minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session can help burn a significant amount of calories, even if you have limited time.
Moreover, workouts during your workday can also help you reduce stress and allow you to come back to work with more productivity.
Evening workouts
While it is recommended to work out in the morning or midday for weight loss, evening workouts can also be effective.
Research suggests that workouts in the late afternoon or evening can help improve sleep and reduce stress, both of which can help with weight loss. Moreover, evening workouts can also help you burn off any excess calories you consumed throughout the day.
However, it is essential to be mindful of what you eat after an evening workout. Eating a heavy meal late at night can interfere with your sleep and weight loss goals.
Instead, opt for a light meal like a salad with protein or a smoothie to help your muscles recover and support healthy sleep patterns.
The Bottom Line
The best time for weight loss workouts depends on your personal preference and lifestyle.
Morning workouts can help increase your metabolism, midday workouts can help reduce cravings and improve productivity, and evening workouts can help reduce stress and improve sleep. What’s most important is that you find a time that works for you and make exercising regularly a habit.
