Working Out: Early Birds vs. Night Owls
Does the time of day you work out make a difference? Fitness
experts agree that squeezing in your workout when it's most
convenient is better than doing nothing. Some recent findings,
however, may influence what time of day you choose to hit the
elliptical as opposed to blasting your abs:
NUMBER 1
When it comes to cardio, the only requirement is to be awake.
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has found that your
endurance, heart rate and maximal oxygen uptake - a measure of your
aerobic fitness-do not vary whether you're bopping along to Bieber
on the treadmill at 8a.m. or 8p.m.
NUMBER 2
If bulging biceps are the goal, you may want to hit the gym post
9-to-5. The ACSM reports that muscle strength is greater later in
the day because your body is warmer. You're also more flexible at
these times, so you are less likely to incur injury while pumping
iron.
NUMBER 3
In it for the long haul? Adherence to regular fitness programs
is highest among those who work out in the morning. If you're
looking to implement a long-term routine, make popping in that
cardio dance DVD an early habit.