When is the best time to exercise?
BODYBUILDING - when is the perfect time to train?
As a strength athlete, you know the truth, there is no path to success that does not include regular and hard training. But all types of exercise are not the same. Depending on your training goal, your daily schedule and your biorhythm, it either makes sense to get started early in the morning or to complete your training session in the evening.
Maximum power
The most effective training plan is the one you manage to carry out regardless of the time of day. If, on the other hand, you have the opportunity and wish to arrange for the maximum effect of your training, then the afternoon is the perfect time of day for an intense endurance or strength training session.
While early morning training kick-starts your day, the evening is the perfect time for record-breaking performances. Blood pressure and lung functionality are at their best and you can train at the highest level. If you have been physically active during the day, then you are already well prepared for a hard training session with full power. If you have a sedentary everyday life, an evening workout can also prepare you to test the limits of your physical capacity and clear your head after a stressful day at work.
If your goal is to get the most out of your training session, evening training is just right for you. Hard training sessions lead to muscle fatigue, you burn energy, build muscle mass and reduce stress - you will sleep particularly well and give your body the best conditions for a good recovery. You should take time to cool down after your workout to prepare yourself for the night both physically and mentally.
It is important to give the cardiovascular system time to switch off. It is best to stay awake for one to two more hours before going to bed after exercise. If you don't, chances are you'll have trouble sleeping and mess up your biorhythm in the process.
The best time to exercise...
...is your time. What does that mean? The most important stopwatch is not the wristwatch – it's your internal clock, especially when it comes to finding your personal best time for exercise. If you're a morning person by nature, morning workouts will probably work better for you than afternoon sessions.
Everyone's biorhythm is different, so it's best for you to try both exercise variations a few times to find out what works best for you. When deciding, take into account that exercise is not only about efficiency. Above all, it should be fun. Remember, the most effective training sessions are those that are carried out regularly.
Author: Corinne Mäder Reinhard, Senior Sports Nutrition Manager Active Nutrition International. She holds an International Olympic Committee Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Nutrition and is a certified Sports Nutritionist from the International Society of Sports Nutrition.