Aug
17
Reader Q&A - The evening workout
Filed Under Work Out
This question came in from a reader called Anna. She asked if it’s true that evening workouts are bad for you.
I’m not sure where this idea came from. Evening workouts are not harmful in any way. They provide the same benefits as workouts during any other part of the day. However, there are a few issues you may wish to consider if you’re thinking about an evening workout schedule.
Energy Level
Will you be able to commit to working out late every day? Some people can, but others find themselves too tired by the end of the day for physical exercise. A workout might actually help elevate their energy levels but they’re too worn out and sleepy to even attempt it.
Sleep
As I just mentioned, a good workout can actually elevate your energy level because your body will be working hard to keep up. That might make it more difficult to fall asleep, especially if you workout right before you go to bed. Give yourself enough time between workout and bedtime for your body to get cool down.
Scheduling
Evenings are frequently used for socializing. So if you plan on using them for working out, make sure you schedule accordingly. It will be all too easy to start missing workouts because you want to go out with friends.
Summary
Evening workouts are just like any other workout from a health benefit. Just make sure you plan your schedule properly.
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Comments
2 Responses to “Reader Q&A - The evening workout”
Leave a Reply
I suspect that it’s the advice about making sure one leaves a sensible gap of time between working out and going to bed that has confused Anna. I’ve read quite often that one shouldn’t work out too close to going to sleep as it can lead to sleep problems.
I agree with your advice that as long as one leaves enough time to wind down there shouldn’t be any negative effects. And the worst that can happen afaik is that it can disturb your sleep pattern.
Hi Steve,
Yah, that’s probably true. I’m guessing someone told her that late workouts are bad, but not why. It’s true that they’re bad if they interfere with your sleep, but you’re still going to get the same health benefit from them regardless of if they’re in the morning or late in the evening.
Gal