What To Know
- If you’re not used to working out in the evening, start with a light workout and gradually increase the intensity as you get more used to it.
- If you workout in the evening, it’s important to do a few things to help your body recover and prepare for bed.
- If you’re considering working out in the evening, it’s important to choose a time that works for you and to listen to your body.
Many people wonder if it’s okay to workout in the evening. After all, conventional wisdom says that exercise should be done in the morning to get the blood flowing and jumpstart the day. However, there are both pros and cons to exercising before bed, and the best time to workout ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Benefits of Evening Workouts
- Improved sleep: Exercise can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. This is because exercise increases body temperature, which then drops after you finish working out, signaling to your body that it’s time to sleep.
- Reduced stress: Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and tension. When you workout, your body releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. This can help you relax and unwind before bed.
- Increased flexibility: Exercising in the evening can help improve your flexibility. This is because your muscles are warm and loose after a workout, making them more pliable.
- Better recovery: If you’re trying to build muscle, working out in the evening can help you recover more quickly. This is because your body produces more growth hormone at night.
Drawbacks of Evening Workouts
- Difficulty falling asleep: If you’re not used to working out in the evening, it may be difficult to fall asleep afterward. This is because exercise can increase your heart rate and body temperature, which can make it difficult to relax.
- Increased risk of injury: Working out when you’re tired can increase your risk of injury. This is because your muscles are more fatigued and less likely to be able to handle the stress of exercise.
- Interference with sleep: If you workout too close to bedtime, it can interfere with your sleep. This is because exercise can keep you awake and alert, making it difficult to fall asleep.
When to Workout in the Evening
If you’re considering working out in the evening, it’s important to choose a time that works for you. Here are a few tips:
- Avoid working out too close to bedtime. Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to cool down before you go to bed.
- Choose a light to moderate intensity workout. If you’re not used to working out in the evening, start with a light workout and gradually increase the intensity as you get more used to it.
- Listen to your body. If you’re feeling tired, it’s best to skip your workout or do a light workout instead.
What to Do After an Evening Workout
If you workout in the evening, it’s important to do a few things to help your body recover and prepare for bed. Here are a few tips:
- Cool down. After your workout, take some time to cool down by walking or doing some light stretching.
- Take a shower. A warm shower can help you relax and unwind after your workout.
- Eat a healthy snack. Eating a healthy snack after your workout can help you refuel and recover.
- Get a good night’s sleep. Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for recovery and muscle growth.
Wrap-Up
Whether or not you can workout in the evening depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re considering working out in the evening, it’s important to choose a time that works for you and to listen to your body. By following these tips, you can safely and effectively workout in the evening.
Answers to Your Questions
- Can I workout in the evening if I have trouble sleeping?
If you have trouble sleeping, it’s best to avoid working out too close to bedtime. Exercise can increase your heart rate and body temperature, which can make it difficult to fall asleep.
- What is the best time to workout?
The best time to workout is whenever you can consistently stick to it. If you’re not a morning person, working out in the evening may be a better option for you.
- How long should I workout?
The amount of time you should workout depends on your fitness goals. If you’re new to exercise, start with 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. You can gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts as you get stronger.
- What type of exercise is best for evening workouts?
The best type of exercise for evening workouts is something that you enjoy and that you can do consistently. Some good options include yoga, Pilates, walking, swimming, and biking.
- Should I eat before or after an evening workout?
If you’re working out in the evening, it’s important to eat a healthy snack before your workout to give you energy. After your workout, you should eat a healthy meal to help you recover.
