Best Gym Times, According to Experts

For those trying to commit to a regular gym routine, the process can feel daunting with so much to consider.

From choosing the right workouts to tweaking your diet and understanding the role of protein, it might feel like you're learning an entirely new language.

However, before you start lifting weights or hitting the treadmill, there’s an even more fundamental decision to make: what’s the best time to hit the gym?

 

Opinions abound on the matter, but orthopedic spine surgeon and sports medicine expert Dr. Hooman Melamed shared with the DailyMail that the answer isn’t as straightforward as you'd think.

"The ideal time to go to the gym isn’t guided by the clock but should instead depend on your body's alertness, readiness, and willingness to engage in physical activity to achieve your fitness goals," Dr. Melamed explained.

He added that most people’s lives are already packed with demanding schedules. Work commitments, relationships, family, hobbies, and other responsibilities often leave limited opportunities to workout.

Certified personal trainer and NASM member Emily Booth echoed this sentiment, saying, "What’s optimal and what’s realistic often clash with the demands of everyday life."

For those engaging in strength training or attending fitness classes like aerobics or cycling, Dr. Melamed recommends scheduling your session during the gym’s quiet times, such as early in the morning or at lunchtime.

When asked to choose, Dr. Melamed expressed his preference for morning workouts.

"Generally, morning sessions are ideal because they boost your circulation, release endorphins that enhance your well-being, and set a positive tone for the day by improving alertness, engagement, and mood," he said.

However, he emphasized the importance of preparing your body for morning exercise. Jumping straight out of bed and into a workout without stretching could lead to injuries.

If lunchtime is your preferred workout window, Dr. Melamed advises ensuring you fuel your body properly with adequate food beforehand.

Evening workouts, however, should be approached with caution. Both Dr. Melamed and Booth agree that exercising later in the day can interfere with your sleep.

Booth explained that intense exercise followed by eating close to bedtime could negatively impact rest. "If you must work out at night, incorporate a wind-down routine afterward to help your body relax and prepare for sleep," she advised.

According to Booth, finding the best workout time is usually a matter of personal trial and error.

"If you notice your body feels ‘empty’ during a workout because you didn’t eat enough, experiment with how and what you eat beforehand. Keep track of what works," she suggested.

Ultimately, the key is discovering what aligns best with your schedule and how your body responds, ensuring that exercise becomes a sustainable and enjoyable part of your lifestyle.

Source: dailymail

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.