Working out at night has its own set of benefits.
If you’re not a morning person, exercising in the evening might just be your cup of tea. This means you will be less likely to skip a session. You still enjoy the same mental and physical rewards that exercise delivers, no matter when you work out. If you have children, working out in the morning might just be impossible, but doing so after you have put them to bed makes a lot of sense.
So, should you exercise late at night?
If you are worried about affecting your sleep, the myth that exercising at night will keep you awake is exactly that … a myth. Many people report that working out in the evening helps them fall asleep quickly, and sleep soundly.
Another benefit of working out at night means you don’t have to fight the crowds at a gymnasium or health club. If this is your preferred method for fitness, there will also be fewer rules to follow. At peak time, gyms often limit how long you can use each machine, and place other restrictions upon their members due to the high number of people working out at the same time.
On the downside, it is usually a lot easier to find a workout partner if you exercise during the day, rather than at night. Not everyone’s schedule for personal preference allows for physical fitness in the evening. Especially on the weekends, many people like to spend the evening hours in more social, less fitness-oriented pursuits.
One study shows that your strength and muscular abilities are at their peak in the evening hours. This means you can work out harder and longer at night, rather than in the daytime. On the downside, your gym or health club membership may limit access at night.
On the positive side of the equation, socialization is sometimes much easier in the evening hours. Think about it. People exercising in the morning are often trying to squeeze in their workout before they head to their job. This means less of a chance to get to know fitness-minded individuals just like yourself.
If you have a high-stress job or life, exercising in the evening can be a great way to burn stress and let out your frustrations. Then you can return home with a peaceful, calm mindset, rather than taking out those negative emotions on the people you care about the most.
Exercising during the day or at night is largely a personal choice. Whatever time you choose, add daily physical activity to your lifestyle for a wealth of mental and physical benefits.
