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Is It Better To Strength Train In The Morning Or Evening

Written by Alvine May 21, 2023 ยท 4 min read
Is It Better To Strength Train In The Morning Or Evening

Table of Content .

Table of Content:

Description

If you're new to strength training or just looking to switch up your routine, you might be wondering if it's better to strength train in the morning or evening. The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It really depends on your individual schedule, preferences, and goals.

That being said, there are some general pros and cons to morning and evening strength training that you should consider before deciding which time of day is best for you. In this article, we'll explore those pros and cons, as well as provide tips and a step-by-step guide to help you get started with strength training.

How to Strength Train

Before we dive into whether morning or evening strength training is better, let's first go over the basics of how to strength train. Strength training, also known as weightlifting or resistance training, involves using weights or resistance bands to build muscle and increase strength.

To get started with strength training, you'll need access to weights or resistance bands. You can either purchase these for use at home, or join a gym that has weightlifting equipment. It's also important to warm up before each strength training session to prevent injury.

Step-by-Step Guide

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started with strength training:

  1. Choose your weights or resistance bands
  2. Warm up with some light cardio or stretching
  3. Choose your exercises (e.g. squats, lunges, bicep curls, etc.)
  4. Do 3-4 sets of each exercise, with 8-12 reps per set
  5. Rest for 30-60 seconds between sets
  6. Cool down with some stretching

Tips for Strength Training

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your strength training sessions:

  • Start with lighter weights and work your way up as you get stronger
  • Focus on proper form to avoid injury
  • Don't skip warm-up or cool-down sessions
  • Include a variety of exercises to work different muscle groups
  • Take rest days to allow your muscles to recover

Solution to Your Strength Training Dilemma

Now that you know the basics of how to strength train, let's get back to the question at hand: is it better to strength train in the morning or evening?

The answer is, it depends. Here are some pros and cons of morning versus evening strength training to help you decide:

FAQs

Still have questions about morning versus evening strength training? Here are some frequently asked questions:

  1. Q: Will I see better results if I strength train in the morning?
  2. A: Not necessarily. It's more important to be consistent with your strength training routine than to do it at a specific time of day.

  3. Q: Is it better to strength train before or after cardio?
  4. A: It's generally recommended to strength train before cardio, as cardio can fatigue your muscles and make it harder to lift weights.

  5. Q: Can I strength train every day?
  6. A: It's generally recommended to take at least one rest day per week to allow your muscles to recover.

Pros and Cons of Morning vs. Evening Strength Training

Here are some pros and cons of morning versus evening strength training:

Pros of Morning Strength Training

  • You'll have more energy and focus in the morning
  • You'll be more consistent with your workouts, as there are fewer schedule conflicts
  • You'll boost your metabolism for the rest of the day

Cons of Morning Strength Training

  • You may feel stiff or achy in the morning, which could increase risk of injury
  • You may have to wake up earlier to fit in a morning workout
  • Your performance may suffer if you haven't eaten breakfast yet

Pros of Evening Strength Training

  • You'll have more time to warm up and prepare for your workout
  • You'll have more fuel in your system from meals throughout the day
  • Your body temperature will be higher, which can improve performance

Cons of Evening Strength Training

  • You may be more prone to skipping workouts due to schedule conflicts or fatigue
  • You may have trouble sleeping if you exercise too close to bedtime
  • You may have to wait for equipment if you go to a crowded gym in the evening

Ultimately, the best time of day to strength train is the time that works best for your schedule and goals. Whether you choose to strength train in the morning or evening, be consistent, focus on proper form, and listen to your body. With time and dedication, you'll see the results you're looking for.