The Benefits of Morning Exercise: Why It’s Worth the Early Start

Why Morning Workouts Are Beneficial: Sleep, Focus, and More

For some, a morning workout is the perfect way to kick-start the day, while others might prefer to exercise later in the day. Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, fitting exercise into our busy lives— even just 10 to 15 minutes— is an accomplishment in itself. However, if you’re someone who enjoys exercising in the morning, research shows it’s not just about squeezing in time—it offers numerous health benefits.

Improved Sleep

Studies, such as one published in Sleep Medicine, have shown that engaging in light exercise like walking in the morning can significantly improve sleep quality. In particular, individuals aged 55 to 65 who experience mild insomnia reported better sleep quality at night, with the most significant improvements occurring in the middle of the night.

Better Blood Sugar Regulation

Morning workouts can also help with blood sugar management. Research from the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology has demonstrated that exercising in the morning lowers the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially for people with type 1 diabetes. Treadmill workouts done in the morning were linked to a lower occurrence of hypoglycemic events compared to afternoon workouts.

Sharper Focus

Want to boost your productivity and mental clarity? Morning exercise has been shown to enhance cognitive function. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that participants who completed a 30-minute morning treadmill walk improved their decision-making skills, visual learning, and attention span. Those who remained sedentary for eight hours did not show the same cognitive improvements.

Increased Movement Throughout the Day

Interestingly, research suggests that exercising in the morning can lead to more physical activity throughout the day. A study revealed that morning workouts increase Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT)—the energy burned by performing everyday activities. This means you’re more likely to move around more after your morning workout, contributing to better overall physical activity levels.

Better Appetite Regulation

Morning exercise can also help regulate your appetite. A study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise found that participants who walked for 45 minutes in the morning showed less brain activity when viewing food-related images, indicating a reduced appetite response. On days when they skipped the morning exercise, their brains showed a stronger reaction to food images, suggesting heightened hunger levels.

While any form of exercise is beneficial, there’s compelling evidence that morning workouts provide unique advantages for both physical and mental well-being. So, if you enjoy getting a workout in before lunch, you’re not only doing your body good but also giving yourself a boost for the rest of the day!