The majority of us wake up with the good intention of working out at some point in the workday, however, we often allow the day to roll over and never really end up pursuing the intentions we set for ourselves in the morning.
And that’s why many people go to the gym or for a run early on in the morning before they start working. This way, not only have they done their exercise for the day, but they can also reap the benefits of working out before starting the work day.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the benefits of working out before doing anything else in the morning.
Are There Any Potential Benefits To Exercising In The Morning?
Yes, there are. Many people believe that when they work out in the morning before work, they get energized just enough to keep them focused and productive during the workday. But, what are the actual benefits of exercising early in the morning? Let’s take a look.
1. You Can’t Work Out An Excuse
Hardly anyone can find the motivation to go for a run or hit the gym after a long day at work. And that’s understandable. A lot of people feel the same way.
But, if you wake up early before work, there isn’t anything else you can do but work out. And if you don’t - saying you didn’t have time or that you’re tired is an excuse. And at this point - you’re just lying to yourself.
2. You Are Less Likely To Be Distracted
Working out in the morning leaves no room for distraction. That means no emails, no getting side-tracked, and no tacking that hefty to-do list. You will be purely focusing on you and the goals you have set for yourself in the gym.
Additionally, we tend to get bombarded with fewer phone calls and emails in the morning because the rest of the country is also just starting to wake up. So, if that isn't reason enough - then we don't know what would be. This also means you will be able to focus on your workout and you won't have work constantly on your mind.
3. You Will Feel More Energized
A general benefit of exercise is increased energy. No matter the time of day, exercising in the morning before work will aid in releasing hormones that will boost your energy and reduce your fatigue - allowing you to focus for longer periods of the day.
Aside from that, you’ll also be a whole lot more productive as you’ve already started your day strong and chances are - you don’t want to slow down and ruin the momentum.
4. It Sets The Tone For The Day
Waking up late and rushing to work is one of the worst ways to start your day. Not only will you feel disorientated and frazzled, but it'll also set a fast-paced, negative, on-the-go tone for the day.
Waking up earlier and exercising before work gives you the time to wake up, move your body and focus on yourself before reaching out to clients and allowing the day to take over. It is often said that if you wake up thinking you will have a good day, 9/10 times you will have a good day. The same goes for exercising before work. A good workout equals a good day.
5. You’ll Get Extra ‘Feel Good’ Hormones
Although waking up with positivity in mind should always be the goal, it is not always the reality. By encouraging yourself to get out of bed and go for a jog, you are allowing your body to release what we call ‘feel-good hormones’.
It is these very hormones that give us the ‘runner's high’ and without them, who knows if any of us would be able to make it through the workday. Additionally, these hormones also reduce our stress and racing thoughts.
6. Reduces Procrastination
Last but not least, working out before work improves your overall alertness and focus. It also is said to improve overall decision-making which is crucial when your boss is giving you the chance to prove yourself.
And remember, if you’re a very busy person and you can’t find the time to work out - you can always try working out while working.
Conclusion
If you are new to working out and are just trying to establish a routine that works for you, we suggest opting for a morning workout.
The likelihood of you completing the workout and feeling good before a full day of work is a lot higher than if you were to attempt it after a long day in the office.
On top of that, working out in the morning offers you a load of benefits such as increased alertness and concentration, improved productivity, and mood.