Morning vs evening workout: Which is better for weight loss?

As summer approaches with its sweltering heat and longer days, finding the ideal time to exercise becomes essential for both safety and performance. Exercising in the heat increases the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, making timing crucial. During the summer season and extreme heat, avoiding peak sun hours from 10 am to 4 pm is essential to stay safe.Morning or evening, one should look at temperature, convenience, and personal preference as the basis for their workout timings. Let’s help you make an informed decision about weight loss!

Early morning workouts: Embracing sunrise

Morning exercises are the best! Early morning workouts offer cooler temperatures and a chance to start your day with a burst of energy. Some advantages of working out in the morning include:
1. Cooler temperatures: The early morning hours, typically before 8 AM, offer the coolest part of the day. “Exercising during the morning reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses during summer and makes exercising more comfortable.
2. Increased Consistency: Exercising in the morning helps establish a consistent routine, reducing the likelihood of skipping workouts due to daytime distractions.
3. Improved Mood and Focus: Physical activity in the morning releases endorphins, which can elevate your mood and increase mental clarity, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.
As morning workouts require waking up earlier, it can be challenging if you’re not a morning person or have a busy schedule. Moreover, your body might feel stiffer in the morning, requiring a thorough warm-up to prevent injuries.

Evening Workouts: Take advantage of cooler evenings

“After a long, stressful day, evening workouts can serve as a great way to unwind and decompress. After 5 or 6 PM, the temperature starts to drop, making outdoor workouts more comfortable and safer. This is especially important during the summer months when midday temperatures can be dangerously high,” says Miten Kakaiya, fitness and wellness coach at Miten Says Fitness. Some advantages of working out in the evening include:
1. Optimal Performance: Physical performance peaks in the late afternoon and early evening, making it an ideal time for more intense workouts.
2. Stress Relief: Evening workouts can help relieve stress accumulated throughout the day, promoting relaxation and better sleep.
3. Cooler Temperatures: After 5 or 6 PM, the intense heat of the day starts to subside, making outdoor workouts safer and more comfortable.
4. More Social Opportunities: Evening sessions can be more social as friends and family are more likely to join in after work, providing additional motivation and enjoyment.

While evening workouts are great, sometimes, exercising too close to bedtime can interfere with sleep for some people due to post-exercise adrenaline rush and increased inflammation.

Do what suits your lifestyle!

Both morning and evening workouts have their unique advantages and disadvantages, particularly during the summer months. “The key is to choose a time that fits your schedule, preferences, and lifestyle while prioritizing safety to avoid the risks associated with peak sun exposure. Ultimately, the best time to work out is the time that you can consistently stick to, ensuring you stay active, healthy, and happy all summer long.