Last week here on the Zim’s blog we talked about the benefits of working out in the morning. However, for some of us that start work early a morning workout is not possible. So what about exercise in the evenings? Can that be as beneficial as in the mornings? Let’s talk about it!
Better Performance
One surprising result of a recent study shows that performance may actually improve when muscles are warm and active. “Muscle strength, flexibility, power output and endurance are all better in the evening than in the morning. Plus, people who exercise in the evening take up to 20% longer to reach the point of exhaustion” So if you want to improve your times it may be smartest to workout in the evening instead of the morning.
Relieve Stress
While starting off your day with positive endorphins of exercise can make sense it may also be helpful mentally to workout after a long and stressful day. As you run or swim you can process what has happened during the day and even let off some steam if things have been frustrating. This can be very therapeutic and help you to perform better as an employee and family-member.
Positive Hormones
Testosterone is important for building muscles for both men and women and one study suggests your body might produce more of it during afternoon workouts when compared to morning workouts. Either way your body is warmer and ready to groove faster in the evening resulting in greater strength and muscle gains.
Stop the Junk
Many of us eat poorly in the evening when there is just enough distance from our work out to forget and let ourselves go. It’s easy to let healthy activities get replaced by snacking, drinking, smoking or lazying about on the sofa watching TV. Exercising in the evening may help remind us of how hard we have worked to be in shape.
Sleep Problems May Result
Unfortunately some research has shown that sleeping may be impaired by later workouts. This is particularly true of exercise within an hour before bedtime. Insomniacs need to be especially careful because getting to sleep is the area most impacted by evening exercise. A late afternoon workout appears to be the most promising time period with the benefits of both evening and morning workout without impacting sleep. In fact, some studies showed sleep being enhanced by vigorous earlier activity. Just try to avoid less than 1 hour before bedtime.
Whenever you chose to workout make sure to use the Zim’s family of pain relief products for your muscle aches and pains. You won’t regret it!
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