What you should know about working out in the morning
This post is brought to you by Premier Protein.
Let’s talk about working out in the morning before work. For those of us who do it or who have done it, it’s life-changing. And for those of us who have never done it, it seems almost crazy. I’m going to give you some insight and information on why working out in the morning is awesome, with a little science thrown in too. But first, a story …
Last week, my little sister-in-law (Dave’s younger sister), who lives in Santa Cruz, came to stay with us for three nights. She is in her first job fresh out of college, and she needed to be in Oakland for some meetings, so we were happy to have her. During her visit, I brought her along with me to my early morning BODYPUMP class I teach on Tuesday, which starts at 6 a.m. She was a total trooper, and woke up early with her alarm and was waiting for me in the kitchen ready to go by 5:25 a.m., just like I asked her to.
What was funny was the discussion we had in the car on the way to the gym (which happens to be 20 minutes from my house and not super convenient). She asked me if there would be anybody there. And while she was kind of joking, in a way, she wasn’t. As a college student and a young professional, she has always gone to the gym after work in the evening, and that’s in her nature. Like most people, she has energy in the evening, and likes to go exercise after she is fully awake and done with her other responsibilities for the day. I get it, because I used to do it exclusively that way too. (And I’m an anomaly, because I actually work out in both the morning and the evening these days, depending on the day and my group fitness teaching schedule. But that’s neither here nor there.)
When we got to the gym that Tuesday morning and walked in, she was surprised to see nearly every cardio machine full and a packed cycle class taking place — all at 5:45 a.m. We used the foam rollers, then headed into the group fitness studio and people began filling that room too — all 40 of them. The workout was great, and we all had a good sweat, and after the class, I saw the glow on everyone who attended. They knew their sweat session was complete for the day, they had exercise-induced endorphins, and they were revved up to take on their day. It’s a beautiful thing.
Benefits of working out in the morning
My conversation with my dear little sis-in-law made me realize that sometimes, if you don’t really know WHY to do something that’s not easy at first, you can avoid it. So I wanted to give you all some background on the decision to get that workout done first thing in the morning, because you may find that it can improve some things in your life that evening workouts cannot. Here we go …
1. It will get easier over time as your brain changes
The first thing I like people to know about working out first thing in the morning is that it will get easier. When we start to learn a new habit, we are actually changing pathways in our brain. With repetition, those pathways get clearer and we’re able to do it with less and less struggle as time goes on. When you start working out in the morning first thing, you are literally changing your brain and creating new neuro-associations. That’s powerful.
At first, perhaps the first three to four weeks, you may feel like a zombie. It may feel ridiculous to get up at 6 a.m. or earlier and head to the gym or head out on a run or head to your basement for a workout video. And you won’t like it. But if you put one foot in front of the other and keep up the habit, it will TOTALLY become second nature. I promise! You’ll crave it. It will become part of you. Just ask the 40 people who come to my BODYPUMP classes on Tuesday mornings at 6 a.m. They roll out of bed, grab their gym bag and make it to class with very little effort. It’s ingrained in their brains.
2. It will help you to sleep better at night
This is something that I knew helped with my own body, and then was completely affirmed when reading Shawn Stevenson’s book “Sleep Smarter.” Because of the way our natural hormones work, you have a rush of cortisol (stress hormone) in the early morning after you wake up. If you exercise at this time, you can take advantage of this rush of cortisol, and then it will lower throughout the day, before the melatonin comes into play to get you to sleep at night. However, if you work out after work or in the evening, you are actually forcing a spike in cortisol that may not be naturally occurring in your body. That evening workout could delay the melatonin, and thus delay you getting into a deep sleep at night.
So yes a morning workout, helps you capitalize on your natural hormones and sleep better. And we all need sleep. (That’s something I’ve written all about here, so don’t miss it.)
3. No projects or new plans can get in the way of it
How many times have you had your afternoon workout plans derailed by a new project at work, a flat tire, or a family commitment that came out of left field? Probably a lot. It’s so much easier for the cards to get stacked up against you as the day goes on. And it makes getting to the gym on a regular cadence in the evening a struggle. However, if you work out first thing in the morning, it’s less likely that something can get in the way. You do the movement, you get cleaned up and you get on with your day. It’s amazing. You can even book a social activity for the weeknight if you want to.
Take it from me — that feeling you have AFTER your morning workout will stay with you all day. You’ll know you did something great for your body, and you’ll be able to be thankful for it through whatever the rest of your day hands you. On the flip side, you get those endorphins after an evening workout too, but they don’t get to stay with you as long until the day ends. Make ’em last!
4. It helps you to make healthier choices all day
True story: If you work out in the morning, it sets the tone for a healthy day. If you know you already got your sweat session done, you will probably be riding high and interested in eating fruits and veggies and staying hydrated. It’s top of mind. You may even be able to say no to those chips in the lunch-room that you don’t really want anyway. I’m not sure of the science behind this point, but I know it to be true with my own body, so we’ll go with it.
While I love the energy of an evening group fitness crowd and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with doing workouts at night, I have seen the benefits first hand of a regular morning workout routine, and want you to know that you may too. (Please note: Movement is important, so if you can’t do it in the morning, don’t sweat it, do it when you can … as always, I’m just giving you the info.) And here are some healthy pre- and post-workout nutrition choices …
Tips for how to work out in the early morning
And here’s how you can be successful at it …
- Do it every weekday. It’s SO much easier to get used to waking up early to work out if you have your body do it each day. I used to be adamant about my 5:30 a.m. wake-up, and that was the time that I was most consistent for my mornings. Once again, because of my teaching schedule, that’s a little different now, but I know I operate best with the same workout and wake-up times each day.
- Pack your things the night before. Pick out your outfit, pack your bag and have it all ready for you so you don’t have to waste any time in the morning. I actually put my sneakers and gym bag in my car the night before, so I can roll down to the garage in my socks and head out. (But yes, I put my shoes on before I drive, don’t report me 🙂 !)
- Find a workout buddy. There’s nothing quite like knowing that your friend has set up your spot in the group fitness room in the darkness of morning and you need to be there to fill it. Many of the people in my early morning classes become friends, because you share a community with like-minded early risers, and it’s very powerful. Convince someone else to do it with you, and you’ll be so happy you did.
- Plan your pre-workout nutrition. Unless you’re doing fasted cardio, I like to think that a little something to eat before a workout is a good idea to give your body more energy to push harder. You can eat half of a Premier Protein bar, a banana with almond butter or even a Greek yogurt with berries. Something quick. Get it down about 30 minutes before your workout if possible.
- Plan your post-workout nutrition. Then, after your workout, have your recovery nutrition on the ready. You’ll always find me with a protein shake waiting for me in the car after my workouts, and that revives me, refuels my muscles and holds me over until I shower and have a chance to sit down to a full breakfast. Premier Protein offers ready-to-go single-serve cartons (more than 24 vitamins and minerals in these) as well as protein powder to mix with water (or smoothies) for this too, and they are tasty! I like all the flavors, because they are creamy and honestly taste like a treat. Dave’s favorite is chocolate, and I’d probably go with banana, because banana. With 30 grams of protein, it’s just what your muscles need to repair, especially after a resistance session like BODYPUMP. (Make sure you get enough protein throughout the day too.)
- Streamline your morning to-do list. Get as much done as you can the night before that will prepare you for a fast get-ready after your workout. That means packing your lunch, making sure your family is all set with their food for the day (if you have others relying on you), having your workout outfit ironed, and if you can, try to schedule your work meetings or calls to start a little later to give yourself some wiggle time. It’s not fun to feel super rushed after your great gym sesh, so the more you can clear out of the way, the better.
- Go to bed earlier. Just because you switch to morning workouts doesn’t mean you should skimp on sleep. Count back from the time that you’re going to wake up by eight hours, then make sure you are in our bed at that time. For me, I am in bed no later than 9:45 p.m. on the nights when I’m planning to wake up for my early session. Sleep is key!
I have to say that working out in the morning can really change your days. You feel so good when it’s done that you are often more energetic, positive and motivated with everything else that comes your way.
Whenever you choose to move is totally up to you, but knowledge is power, so I hope you enjoyed my thoughts! And remember, the day is yours!
What you need to know about working out in the morning and how to do it by @apstyle #TheDayIsYours #Fitness #Workouts @PremierProtein Click To Tweet
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Premier Protein. I received compensation and free product, but all opinions and words are totally my own. Thanks for reading!
Questions of the day
Do you work out in the morning? What’s your morning routine?
Do you know someone who should become your gym buddy? Ask them!
I’m a morning worker outer. I don’t necessarily like to do it AS SOON as I wake up, but I have definitely transitioned to working out an hour after I get up. Otherwise… it might not happen…
Hi Susie! That’s still good to get moving a bit after waking up. As long as you’re happy with your routine. 🙂 Have a great day, friend!
I love working out in the morning and all of these reasons are spot on. I loved when I taught in the morning and I literally rolled out of bed, grabbed my bag and off I went. I was joined with many other bedheads 😉 But now I try hard to wake up at 6 everyday to get in a workout before the kiddo wakes up. I wish more people understood the love we have for working out, and not the “you’re so crazy for waking up early to do it.” Listen, the day will be gone and you’ll never get it in if you don’t!
So true! Once you convert to waking up in the dark to exercise, it becomes second nature. We get it! I know it’s harder with kids, but at least you are still committed. Nice work, Heather! 🙂
Interesting! I’ll have to check out that sleep book too, sounds informative. I workout after work on weekdays and usually in the early afternoons on weekends. I leave the house at 6:30am to get to work, so I think for my current schedule, me fitting in a workout at like 4am wouldn’t be in the cards. I’ll never say never though!
Hi Heather! Yes, you fall into the category of can’t really do morning workouts with that type of schedule. And that’s okay! As long as you’re moving around sometime in the day. 🙂 Keep it up, gal! And read the Sleep Smarter book for sure! So good!
So many great tips! I switched up my routine about two years ago and started working out in the mornings. I love having the afternoons now to run errands, clean up around the house, cook, or get extra work done. I only wish my local gym offered more early morning fitness classes. Their earliest is usually 8:00 am which isn’t possible with my work schedule 🙁
No way? Your gym doesn’t have 6 a.m. classes? That’s too bad! You should offer to start them up and teach them!! 🙂
Yes I love this idea! =)
Do it!!!!
I work out in the morning and even though I am often called crazy, I would not have it any other way. It feels so good to start my day off feeling accomplished after a great sweat session. I’m so happy you wrote about this and threw in some science about the benefits for early morning workouts because it makes me feel validated!
Happy Monday to you! Xoxo.
I’m happy, you’re happy. 🙂 hehehe You are SO good at being consistent, and I love that. Thanks for being a reader and friend and part of our little #FITFAM.
Thanks Ashley! That means so much coming from you! And I’m for sure a ride or die reader and friend. <3
🙂
It’s SO true that nothing does get in the way of an early morning workout, and I love it when I can get in a morning workout; I’m kind of a half and half gal. I’m always amazed and so full of respect for those who are consistent at doing it every single morning.
Hi Emily! It’s so much easier if you do it everyday, but of course, at times our schedules dictate if we can. And YES to that great post-workout morning feeling. Did you get one in today? 🙂
Morning workouts are my FAVORITE. I usually work out right after I wake up, but I I only switch them to later in the day if I sleep really poorly and need to sleep in a little… or if I’m working out with a friend who refuses my 5:45 wakeup call. 🙂
I love how morning workouts set the tone for my day. Best feeling ever.
Hi Ellen! Sounds like you have a perfect routine. And if you can get a buddy to meet you in the evening, that’s always fun. Keep up the awesome, work!
Great post! I love those Premier Protein shakes.
I’m not an early exerciser, only yoga or pilates before 10 AM for me, hello super low blood pressure :). I do enjoy taking the pup for a nice long walk in the mornings though, before I eat my breakfast.
You are getting some nice fresh air and the benefit of morning cortisol with your walks, so that’s great. We each have to do what works for us! And a beach walk sounds amazing!!
I’ve tried waking up earlier and working out before work but I’ve noticed it does NOT help me make better choices during the day. I’m starving beyond belief and want to eat the world by noon. Also then tend to crave chocolate and crash mid-day and end up at Starbucks. Any suggests on how I can keep my appetite under control would be appreciated it. It’s seriously deterring me from working out first thing.
Hi Elizabeth! Oh no!! While I can’t tell exactly what’s going on with you, I can make some guesses … is there a chance that you are not sleeping enough or well the night before an early morning workout? Less sleep, or fitful sleep (worrying about waking up the next day) will make you jittery and hungry all day and crave sugar. So go to sleep EARLIER on nights you will wake up the next day. Also, there’s a chance you are dehydrated because you start the day by sweating and may never get fully hydrated after. Try drinking a TON of water as soon as you wake up and after your workout. Also, make sure you get up and move throughout the day. Don’t let the one workout be the only time you’re active. Also, are you eating something with a little carbs/protein/fat BEFORE the workout? You should have something balanced that’s not just carbs and sugar. Then after your workout, same thing — get some protein to refuel. It’s TOTALLY normal to feel tired a little earlier on a day you work out earlier, but that will get easier. But you shouldn’t feel bad. Hope these tips help a little!
Very helpful idea. I am starting my workout. These tips would help me to make my plan more useful. Thanks for the Writing:)
Thanks for reading, Sarah!
Definitely a morning person. There’s just no excuses. I get up and do it every. single. day! I go to bed at 9:00 and set my alarm for 4:30~5:00 depending on the morning schedule. My day goes better that way.
Good work, Marsha! That’s a great schedule, giving yourself time for quality sleep too. Keep up the good job!
Morning workout all day. There’s just too many things that can get in the way of me doing it in the evening!
Sure is! So much better to get it out of the way first thing, if you can! 🙂
Totally agree! Morning workouts are a must. Now I feel better knowing that science supports it too 🙂
Hi Hannah! Science does support it! Glad you’re on board. What’s your favorite kind of workout?
I’m a super early gym goer!! I wouldn’t have it any other way. M-F my alarm is set at 445 and I’m at the gym by 525 with my “workout crew”. I LOVE It. I love coming home from work In the evening, putting my pajamas on and being able to relax, rather than fight the evening crowds at the gym! And we all know how those evening crowds are. 😉
Wow! You’ve got a killer routine there, lady! Nice job. And I’m writing this to you in my pajamas on the couch, because I got my workout done earlier this morning hahaha! 🙂 Do you have a workout buddy or do you go alone??
I actually have 4 people I go with every morning. One of them being my dad (hes a huge workout guy and was the one who has always inspired me to get on the train HAHA) and then 3 other ladies! Its so fun to have a group because they hold you accountable and push you! BTW..i was totally thinking of you last night as I was eating my coconut covered dates slathered in PB..in bed…at 830pm while reading my book. LOL! LOVE THEM SO MUCH!
OMG, that is totally awesome that your Dad is part of your workout group. I absolutely LOVE that. How lucky are you to have that FITFAM? 🙂 And YES to dates in your bed, in your jammies. My life on weeknights too! 🙂
I’m a personal trainer as well and these tips are so spot on! I’m with ya on the varying workout schedule now, but I definitely tell everyone to try these things when they want to become a morning workout person! love the whole look of your blog lady, keep it up!
Hi Emily! Thank you so much for reading and saying that. I appreciate it! And yes, as people who work in fitness, we don’t always get to do our workouts when we want, but we can preach the better way to others! 🙂
These tips are great! I’m definitely a fan of morning workouts. Unfortunately, the yoga class I love only offers classes in the evenings or on weekends, but every other day of the week I’m on the elliptical, doing an at-home yoga routine, or using our weight machine by 5 a.m. It makes me feel awake and ready for my day!
Hi Ashley! Totally cool that you have a good morning workout routine. And with yoga, I think doing that any time of day is hopefully not going to mess with your sleep. Yoga’s great for you. Thanks for saying hi, lady! Love your NAME:)
YESS!!! I agree 100% working out in the AM is the best! No excuses!
So true, Rachel! It’s not always easy to get up early, but it’s worth it. Keep up the good work!
I work out stupid early in the morning before work 4 days a week (I take my rest day on Wednesdays most of the time). I run 2 days, lift 2 days, and then run on the weekend and hit up BodyPump as well.
When I first started waking up at 5am to run I could only do it 2 days a week, and remember commenting that doing it 3 days a week almost killed me. Over time, and gradually, I increased to 3 days a week, then 4.
I love working out before the sun is up and before my family is up for the day. If I were to wait until after work life would get in the way and it would rarely happen.
Hi Christine! Wow! You go! You’ve got a great routine going, and it’s WAY better for your family to get your full attention in the evenings, because your workout is done. Also, props to you for having a dedicated rest day. So important!
I believe that a morning workout is more effective and powerful. I get more energy and my mood increases. These tips are very helpful, Ashley!
Hi Agness!! Sure do! There are so many benefits of working out early. Thanks for saying hi!
Working out in the AM is a staple in my life. Not a morning goes by where I don’t pop out of bed early in the AM so as to get my booty to the gym! Every day! EVERY DAYYY! 🙂 It affects my mood and definitely helps me sleep a lot better at night! I feel bad for people who have to deal with me on the RARE occasion where I cannot work out LOL! Thankfully those days are VERY rare. I am talking like maybe 3 x a year! haha!
Wow! Everyday? No rest? You are an animal, Gigi! Glad the mornings work out for you (pun intended)!
GROARRRR! 😉
I do workout in the morning – although mostly bc I teach classes or train in the morning. 🙂 I imagine I would really suck at motivating myself to get up and not hit the snooze button. Someone once told me, “just get one foot on the floor.” It was pretty good advice – usually once your feet hit the floor, you are up. 🙂
That’s great advice! Love it! Thanks for sharing!
I used to be OBSESSED with morning workouts. It becomes so difficult for me to get up in the cold/dark. Ugh. Great reminder to get back at it!
XO, Jessica
http://www.semisweettooth.com
I agree it’s been way harder for me as it’s gotten colder here in the morning too. But I know our cold doesn’t compare to yours! Just remember how good you’ll feel when it’s done! 🙂
Working out in the morning is great. The hardest part is just waking up and getting there. But once your there and you finish then the rest of the day you have so much energy.
Agreed! Working out in the morning definitely is a great start to the day!