It’s often said that the best time to work out is in the morning. But what if you’re not a morning person or have to start work before dawn?
Morning workouts are considered the best for several reasons, including ayurvedic beliefs which recommend exercising between 4-6 am. Mornings are generally quieter and free from distractions.
If you want to become a morning exerciser, there are a few things you can do to help make it easier. The National Sleep Foundation notes that most Americans don’t get enough sleep, which makes waking up early challenging.
Improving sleep hygiene is crucial. This means getting an appropriate amount of sleep, ideally without needing an alarm to wake you up. While eight hours is the average, everyone’s needs vary. Good sleep practices also involve avoiding screens at least two hours before bed, creating a nighttime routine (like taking a hot bath or drinking decaf tea), and keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
A quality mattress can also help you get better rest, which will improve your overall health and make waking up for a morning workout easier.
For some, medical help might be necessary to optimize fitness. Consulting with healthcare professionals can make morning workouts more manageable. Personal trainers and dieticians can also provide valuable support and hold you accountable for your morning exercise routine. Building a support team can be very beneficial.
Choosing a gym that’s close to home or setting up a home gym can eliminate the hassle of a long commute. You can easily create a home workout space with minimal equipment, like resistance bands or free online yoga classes. If you prefer personal trainers, they can come to your home too. Cardio exercises like walking, running, and cycling don’t require a gym membership and can be done near your home.
Finding what motivates you in the morning is key. This could be a quick meditation session or swapping your first cup of coffee for warm lemon water to kickstart your metabolism. Morning routines are as important as bedtime rituals, so avoid checking email or getting distracted when you should be getting ready for your workout.
Many gym clothes can double as sleepwear, making it easier to transition into workout mode when you wake up. However, comfort is essential for good sleep, so this might not work for everyone. Alternatively, you can lay out your gym clothes the night before to reduce morning distractions.
During winter, it can be challenging to leave the house early. If possible, use a garage or car park and warm up your car remotely. Avoid getting sidetracked by social media or emails before your workout.
The hardest part of any workout is getting started, especially in winter or stressful times. However, a morning workout can boost your adrenaline and reduce stress, setting a positive tone for the rest of your day.
As a bonus tip, make your bed if you’re the last person to get up. This simple task can set a productive tone for the day and help keep you from crawling back into bed.
Are you ready to take on the day and get in that workout before work?