As we navigate through the challenges and uncertainties of 2024, the constant exposure to disheartening news can add to our daily stress and dampen our spirits. In this context, carving out time for exercise becomes crucial, serving as a vital tool to preserve and enhance both our physical and mental well-being amidst our busy schedules
The question often boils down to this, is it better to exercise in the morning or in the evening? While preferences vary, emerging research and expert opinion increasingly suggest that morning workouts may offer special benefits, particularly for employees and workers.
Beginning your day with exercise is not just a physical activity; it’s a powerful catalyst for overall well-being. Engaging in a morning workout can significantly elevate energy levels and sharpen mental clarity, effectively arming both the body and mind to face the day’s hurdles with vigor. This is not merely about warding off the remnants of sleep but about instilling a sense of positivity and vitality that permeates through the entire day. The release of endorphins during physical exertion plays a pivotal role. These ‘feel-good’ hormones do more than just combat sleepiness; they foster an optimistic and energised outlook, essential for tackling daily tasks. In a workplace, the impact of this is even more pronounced. Heightened focus and an uplifted mood can drastically improve productivity, decision-making, and creative thinking. It enables employees to work hard with a sustained intensity and a kindness born out of a positive state of mind.
Incorporating morning workouts into a daily routine aligns well with the ethos of ‘work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen.’ This holistic approach ensures that the hard work is not just a pursuit of professional goals but also a commitment to personal health and mental clarity. Being kind, a trait often overlooked in the professional world, is naturally fostered by the good mood and positive mindset that regular morning exercise promotes. Furthermore, when individuals start their day with such a positive and disciplined routine, it sets a precedent for the rest of the day. They are more likely to make healthier choices, interact positively with colleagues, and approach work challenges with a constructive attitude. This cycle of positivity and productivity feeds into not just individual job satisfaction but also contributes to a more harmonious and efficient work e
From a physiological perspective, exercising in the morning might have advantages for weight management. An early workout can kickstart the metabolism, leading to more calories being burned throughout the day, a factor relevant for weight control. Moreover, morning exercise can help in better managing stress. The physical exertion not only releases tension but also helps in setting a calm yet energised tone for the day.
However, morning workouts do come with their challenges. Juggling family responsibilities, such as school runs, and coping with pre-existing health issues can make early workouts seem daunting. But with planning and gradual adjustments, these hurdles can be effectively managed.
Recent studies have shed light on the flexibility of workout timings. A notable study by Penelope Larsen and colleagues in 2019 investigated how evening high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) impacts sleep and appetite in middle-aged men. It found that HIIE in the early evening did not lead to sleep disturbances and did not significantly alter energy intake despite changes in appetite-related hormones like acylated ghrelin. This study suggests that while evening workouts don’t negatively impact sleep or appetite, the benefits of morning exercise in terms of mood and energy levels still make it a compelling choice for many.
To make morning workouts work, consider a gradual transition to earlier waking times, prepare workout clothes and gear the night before, and have a light, nutritious pre-workout meal. Consistency is key in establishing this routine. Over time, early morning workouts can become a natural and integral part of your day.
But here’s an intriguing question, does this surge of morning energy and enthusiasm tend to diminish as the day progresses, especially in non-remote, conventional office environments? It’s a valid concern. The energy from a morning workout can sometimes wane by late afternoon, potentially leading to a slump in productivity and morale. This phenomenon raises an interesting point about the evolving nature of work, especially with the increasing prevalence of remote work.
In the realm of home working, the dynamics shift considerably. The flexibility of working from home might allow for a more balanced distribution of energy throughout the day. Could it be that remote workers, after a vigorous morning workout and a productive start, sneak in a quick power nap swapping the spreadsheet for the bedsheet to recharge? It’s a humorous thought, but not entirely implausible! This ‘gym and nap’ routine could very well be the secret for sustained productivity for home-based professionals.
The ability to take short breaks, including naps, without the constraints of a traditional office setting, might just be what keeps the post-workout zeal from fizzling out. In this sense, working from home could offer the best of both worlds – maintaining the morning workout’s boost while providing opportunities to rejuvenate when needed.
In conclusion, while a morning workout routine establishes a foundation of energy and positivity, its lasting impact might vary depending on one’s work environment. The traditional office employee might see a dip in energy levels as the day wears on, while remote working could offer more chances to sustain that initial burst of enthusiasm and productivity. The key is finding what works best in your specific work setting – be it an office, a home desk, or perhaps even a gym with a comfy sofa nearby! As research continues to evolve, it becomes clear that the most pivotal factor is finding a time that aligns with personal goals and fits seamlessly into one’s daily routine.
