Slimball69 Morning Workout Routine, Even If You’re A Night Owl
There are two types of athletes: the 4 a.m. warriors, and those who would rather carry dumbbells all day than work out in the morning. If you asked me three months ago, I would have chosen the latter. But now, over halfway through marathon training and several 6 a.m. alarms later, I’ll admit it: I’m a changed person.
As I planned out my marathon training schedule, nothing sounded worse than waking up with the sun to run 16 miles—especially on a Saturday. I’ve learned to not only embrace the challenge but thrive under it. And I have never felt stronger and healthier, both as a runner and human being. I credit the transformation to one small change: a morning workout routine.
Dreading that morning sweat? Here are five benefits to an a.m. workout that will get you out of bed in the morning, plus exactly how to get started, from experts.
Benefits Of A Morning Workout Routine
1. It contributes to better sleep quality.
Exercise in general can help improve various aspects related to sleep which can lead to improved wellbeing, increased energy, reduced stress, and simply feeling well-slept, according to a 2024 study in Scientific Reports. Older research looked specifically at early morning exercise and found that it led to a decline in nighttime blood pressure, which contributed to better sleep.
“Morning exercise, especially if done outdoors, helps regulate your circadian rhythms,” says Alexa Noban, CPT, a fitness coach in New York City. “Exposure to morning light tells your body that it’s time to be awake and alert, which sets the stage for better sleep at night. This rhythm makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep, leading to improved recovery and overall health.”
2. It boosts your mood.
Nothing feels better than checking off a workout before a busy day ahead. Exercise releases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormone that helps you achieve a post-workout high. Think of it as a natural energy boost sans caffeine. “You’ll feel more energized throughout the day because physical activity increases blood flow, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and brain,” says Noban.
3. It could help you to be more productive.
Morning exercise is good for both your body and brain. “You’ll find that you’re sharper and more productive throughout the day because your body has already gotten moving,” says Noban. “Studies have shown that exercise can improve memory and problem-solving skills, so that morning sweat session is also a mental workout.”
4. It may help with weight loss.
Sticking to a workout schedule is key when it comes to fitness gains and weight loss, if that’s what you’re going for. Consistent morning exercise in particular may help you make it a habit, and lead to more overall exercise, according to a 2020 review in Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews. And that’s a good thing for any goal!
5. It plays a key role in injury prevention.
By getting active early, your muscles will be primed for optimal performance the rest of the day—and that may decrease the risk of injury, says Lindsay Pantaleon, CPT, a trainer at DOGPOUND.
Share for more, Thank for visiting.
Slimball69