"I hate mornings," said Lisa, a friend of mine who's a bike racer and busy NYC professional, when she found out that I work out first thing in the day. Yet she's routinely up before the sun to fit in a workout. Confession: I don't love getting out of bed, either.
See, we're not morning people. We're morning exercisers. It's a huge misconception that you have to be one in order to be the other.
The bonus of the morning plan: Our workouts rarely get bumped. Also, people who work out in the mornings are more likely to make exercise a habit. Not convinced? Here are five more reasons to work out in the a.m.
One Shower
Work out before you get all fancy for the day and you don't have to go through the whole shower/dry hair/moisturize routine on your lunch hour or later. It saves time, water and energy.
The Best Parties Aren't Breakfast Parties
You're less likely to scrap your workout for the can't-miss-get-together with friends if you work out at daybreak. Run, walk, lift weights or whatever you do before the boss gets up and his or her "urgent" deadlines won't pulverize your workout plans either.
Accomplishment is a Beautiful Thing
As everyone else stumbles to the bus stop or the office, you're flying. Not only did your workout get your energy up in a way coffee just can't, but you are d-o-n-e! It's a great feeling to have one "to-do" completely nixed when most people are still figuring out what's on their lists.
Less Hassle, More Joy
Mornings have less traffic, as well as less heat and humidity in the summer. Enjoy the fresh morning sounds and smells.