When's the Best Time to Work Out? Finding What Works for You

One of the most common fitness questions is: “When’s the best time of day to work out?” The truth is, there’s no single answer. It all depends on your lifestyle, personal preferences, and even how your body responds at different times of the day. Some people thrive with early morning workouts, while others feel their strongest in the afternoon or evening.

Morning workouts can be a great way to start the day with energy and focus. Exercising first thing means fewer distractions and a lower chance of skipping it later. Many people also find that it boosts their metabolism, helping them feel more energized throughout the day. However, working out early comes with challenges. Muscles tend to be stiffer in the morning, making a proper warm-up even more important, and sacrificing sleep for an early workout isn’t always the best choice. I used to be a morning workout enthusiast, getting my exercise in before the rest of my family woke up. If I finished my workout early, I had less time to talk myself out of it, and since my previous jobs left me mentally and physically drained by the evening, mornings were the only way I could stay consistent.

For some, the afternoon is the best time to work out. By then, the body is fully awake, muscles are warm, and energy levels are often at their peak. This can make it easier to lift heavier, run faster, and push through tough workouts. Midday exercise can also be a great way to break up the day, relieve stress, and reset for the afternoon ahead. The challenge with afternoon workouts is that schedules don’t always allow for them, and some people experience an energy slump during this time. These days, I have more flexibility in my routine, and I find that working out in the afternoon allows me to feel stronger and more energized.