Is Lifting Weights In The Morning Bad? We Answer

When it comes to lifting weights, there are a lot of different opinions on when the best time to do it is. Some people say that you should lift weights in the morning, while others say evening is the best time. So, which is it? The answer may surprise you.

In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of lifting weights in the morning. By the end, you will be able to make an informed decision about whether lifting weights in the morning is bad or not.

Pros of Lifting Weights in the Morning

First thing in the morning your muscles tend to be weaker and gradually increase in strength as the day progresses. That means if you lift weights in the morning, you may not be performing at your best.

However, for many people, the morning is the best time to lift weights. As energy levels are higher before spending a long day at work.

Regardless of performing at your peak strength, lifting weights in the morning can still provide some benefits such as:

Fewer Distractions
If you work out in the morning, you are less likely to get distracted.

Lower Temperatures
The hottest part of the day is from 10 am to 3 pm, which means by working out in the morning you can beat the heat.

Increased Alertness
Working out in the morning matches your hormonal fluctuations better. Research has shown that cortisol peaks at around 8 am, making your body more primed in the morning.

Increased Energy Throughout The Day
Weight training has been shown to increase energy levels and reduce fatigue. By working out in the morning you may feel more energized throughout the day.

Increased Focus
Physical activity has been shown to increase focus and concentration. By working out first thing in the morning you can improve your visual learning, and improve attention and decision making.

Improves Mood
Lifting weights or doing any physical activity for that matter helps reduce stress. That means by lifting weights in the morning, you can start the day on a positive note.

Supports Weight Loss
According to a recent study, morning workouts are the best for losing weight and increasing your metabolism. This means you will continue to burn calories throughout the day.

Appetite Control
Since exercise has been shown to regulate your appetite through the reduction of ghrelin (hunger hormone). Working out in the morning can help you control your hunger throughout the day.

Increased Activity
According to a 2012 study from Medicine & Science, morning exercise can help increase activity throughout the day. This can lead to a more active and healthier lifestyle.

Helps Control Blood Glucose
A recent study in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology found that morning workouts can help to reduce the chances of hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels)

Helps Manage Blood Pressure
More than 1 in 3 adults suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure). However, a 2014 study found that exercise in the morning can help naturally control hypertension.

 

Disadvantages of Lifting Weights in the Morning

While there are many benefits to lifting weights in the morning, there are some disadvantages. Some of these include:

Lower Energy Stores
During your night’s sleep, your body uses most of your glycogen stores. That means when you wake up, it takes time for your carbohydrates to replenish your energy stores. That means you are more likely to have more energy to lift weights in the evening than in the morning.

Inability to Build Muscle
Working out in the morning has been shown to affect muscle building. Since your muscles require glucose as fuel to lift weights and exercise, you won’t have sufficient stores yet to perform at an optimal level. So, if your goal is to increase strength and build muscle, you are better off lifting weights in the evening when you have replenished your energy stores.

Increased Risk of Injury
Early morning weight training can put you at risk of injury. Since you may not be completely awake, you may find your focus slips when performing weight training exercises, causing you to lose focus on technique, which can lead to injuries.

Metabolism Changes
Evening though morning workouts can boost your metabolism, it also slows down again in the evening. By training later in the afternoon or evening, you can boost your metabolism later in the day. This is beneficial around your main meal of the day (dinner) when you’re eating the most calories. So, for weight loss and weight management, it is better to structure your weight session around the meal that has the greatest calorie consumption.

 

Is Lifting Weights In The Morning Bad?

While there are a lot of benefits to lifting weights in the morning, there are many disadvantages too. If you goal is to increase power and strength you are better to lift weights in the afternoon or evening. That way your body has enough energy supply to perform at its optimal condition.

However, if you don’t have time to train in the evening, try delaying your morning weight training routine to give time for your glycogen stores to replenish after your nights sleep.