People often say, “The best time to work out is in the morning.” But what if you’re not a morning person or you need to be at work really early?
Morning workouts are considered ideal for various reasons, including Ayurvedic beliefs that the best time for fitness is between 4 and 6 am. Mornings are also usually quieter with fewer distractions.
If you want to become a morning exerciser, there are a few tips that might help. Most Americans don’t get enough sleep, according to the National Sleep Foundation, which makes waking up early even harder. Good sleep habits are essential, and it’s more than just getting enough hours of sleep, but that’s a good start. Ideally, you should wake up naturally without an alarm. While eight hours is average, everyone’s needs differ.
Improving your sleep routine can include avoiding screens at least two hours before bed, following a bedtime ritual like taking a hot bath or drinking decaf tea, and keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
It’s also wise to invest in a quality mattress. It can help you get better rest, improving your overall health, and making it easier to get up for that morning workout.
Some people may need medical advice to optimize their fitness routines, and consulting a professional can make early morning workouts more manageable. Getting support from a personal trainer or dietician can also be very helpful. Creating a team to keep you accountable can be a great motivator.
If the gym is too far away, consider opting for a closer gym or setting up a home gym. It’s easy and cost-effective to create a home gym with items like resistance bands or by doing free online yoga classes. Personal trainers can also visit your home. Cardio exercises like walking, running, and cycling don’t require a gym membership, so you can easily do these activities close to home.
Find what motivates you in the morning. Maybe start with a short meditation or swap your morning coffee for warm lemon water to kickstart your metabolism. Morning routines are just as crucial as sleep ones. Avoid checking emails or getting distracted when you should be heading to the gym.
Many gym clothes double as sleepwear like stretchy pants and tank tops, though women might not find sports bras comfortable for sleeping. Comfortable sleepwear is part of good sleep hygiene, and it’s easier to get into gym mode if you’re already partly dressed for it. Lay out your gym clothes the night before if you prefer not to sleep in them, reducing morning distractions.
In winter, getting out of the house can be extra challenging. If you can, park in a garage or carport to avoid scraping ice off your car early in the morning, or warm up your car remotely.
Wait to check social media or email until after your workout. This can be tough but is essential for staying focused.
The hardest part of working out is often just getting started, especially in winter or during stressful times. However, a morning workout can boost your adrenaline and reduce stress before your day begins, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.
Finally, making your bed in the morning can set a productive standard for your day and keep you from crawling back in.
Are you ready to tackle the day and fit in a workout before heading to work?
