I took the above photo after one of my morning workouts. Alone, that view could make my point about why it's great to workout first thing in the morning, but I won't stop there. I have more reasons.
First, habits help. At the turn of the year/decade, many of my podcasts talked about how to stick to our resolutions. They argued (and brain science agrees), that will power really isn't a thing. Or, it's a thing, but very few of us have it, and relying on it doesn't work. That's why most people fail at their resolutions. However, they all said that if we can turn something into a habit, we are more likely to stick with it. I'd argue that the only time people can consistently use is that early morning time. Consistency leads to habits.
Second, we lose steam over the course of the day. Other things start competing for our attention, so we go with those. Plus, biologically speaking, we're more tired at the end of the day than at the beginning. If you workout before you have a chance to feel tired, you'll workout more often.
Third, people are less likely to think up excuses early in the morning. Fewer excuses equals more workouts.
Fourth, a body retains the benefits of its early morning workout for a good chunk of the day. Take advantage of that faster metabolism and perkier brain.
Fifth, seeing the sunrise is terrific, but seeing the sunrise after a workout feels even better. I guarantee a better mood on any day when you get both an early-morning workout and a view of a sunrise.
So, to sum up:
- Don't rely on willpower. Form habits.
- Take advantage of morning energy.
- Go before you think of excuses not to go.
- Up your metabolism by working out early.
- Enjoy the mood enhancer of seeing the sunrise after you've already done something good for your body.
Anybody have any other good reasons to workout early? I'd love to add them to the list. Please tell about them in the comments.