Now is the best time to exercise according to science

Finding time to exercise can be quite a challenge in our busy lives. So try to make the most of every hole. Or exercise at the best time, when exercise yields the most. According to scientists, there is an ideal time of day for a workout.

We have bad news for people who like to sleep in: the most efficient workout is done in the morning.

The best time for a workout is the morning

If you’re not a morning person, exercising in the morning may seem far from your bed. Still, a workout or cardio workout is the best way to burn fat and lose weight, especially if you’re working up a sweat on an empty stomach (though opinions are divided on the latter).

How exactly? Has everything to do with the composition of your hormone levels in the morning. According to Anthony Hackney, professor of exercise and sports at the University of North Carolina, your hormone levels are arranged in such a way in the morning that fat burning gets an extra boost. “In the early morning, your hormonal profile is more prone to more efficient fat metabolism,” says Professor Hackney.

Exercising in the morning lowers stress levels

Other research shows even more benefits of a workout in the morning. This way you would have less appetite for the rest of the day and become saturated faster. And that is of course beneficial for excess kilos.

In addition, exercising in the morning could also lead to better mental health and increased productivity during the (working) day. This can simply be explained by the fact that exercising leads to lower stress levels.

You get used to everything: also getting up early

If getting up early is a huge barrier, reassure yourself with the following: everything gets used to, including the best time to exercise. You’ll probably have to drag yourself out of bed the first few times, but it soon becomes second nature. According to a 2019 study published in The Journal of Physiology, you will quickly become more alert after a workout in the morning and at the same time get tired faster in the evening. This way you automatically dive into bed faster to get some exercise early in the morning.

Also read what is the best time for your first cup of coffee.