Consistency is Key: The Best Time to Work Out for Results

If you’re wondering about the best time to work out for consistent results, you’re not alone. Many people struggle to find the perfect time to exercise and stick with it long-term.

Some argue that mornings are best, while others swear by evening workouts. The truth? The best time to work out is whenever you can do it consistently. I know that’s not the clear answer you were hoping for, but it’s a personal decision you’ll need to figure out for yourself.

Don’t worry—I’ll give you tips and share my own experience to help you determine the best time for you to work out.

The Key to Success: Consistency Over Time

Finding the best time to work out is crucial for staying consistent. Sure, I could tell you that 9:03 a.m. is the best time to work out based on some study, but how does that help if you have a 9 a.m. meeting?

That “perfect” time means nothing if you can’t stick with it. Ultimately, there is no universal perfect time—it depends entirely on your individual schedule and circumstances.

Here’s the key:

• Look at your day and find the time when you can be the most consistent.

• Build flexibility into your plan.

Life happens—traffic, sick kids, last-minute meetings. Flexibility means doing a 20-minute workout instead of an hour, switching your workout to the morning if your evening is busy, or even going tomorrow instead of today.

Remember: The key to results is consistency, not perfection. Doing something is always better than doing nothing.

The Case for Morning Workouts: A Personal Perspective

Recently, I switched my workouts from late at night to the mornings. Why?

The main reason was that I didn’t want to work out after work anymore. By the time I got home, finished my workout, and ate dinner, it was super late. Eating that late messed with my sleep, which affected my overall progress.

Switching to mornings allowed me to:

• Start my day strong and check off my workout early.

• Avoid low energy and motivation after work.

• Dodge evening excuses like last-minute meetings or family obligations.

Morning workouts also create a positive “snowball effect” for the rest of the day. You make better food choices, take more steps, and feel great going into work.

If you’re a parent, morning workouts can even become family time. Recently, while I was working out in my home gym, my kids woke up and joined me. Normally, they’d ask for TV (Bluey, to be specific), but instead, they played and exercised with me.

That’s an experience I wouldn’t trade—and one I couldn’t have if I worked out at night while they were asleep.

When Evening Workouts Make Sense

Morning workouts aren’t for everyone, and that’s okay. For years, I worked out in the evenings, and it worked well for me, until it didn’t.

Here are some tips to make evening workouts easier to stick with:

1.Remind yourself why you started.

Keep a sticky note in your car, on your desk, or on your phone as a constant reminder of your goals.

2. Something is better than nothing.

Even if you only have 10-15 minutes, don’t skip your workout. Showing up builds the habit and keeps you on track.

3. Make it non-negotiable.

Block off time on your calendar, even if it means calling it a “personal development meeting” at work.

4. Prepare ahead of time.

Pack your gym bag, prep your protein shake, and let family or friends know your plans so there are no distractions.

5. Simplify your plan.

Crowded gyms in the evening can be a challenge. Instead of a complicated workout that requires multiple pieces of equipment, stick to one or two exercises at a time to avoid frustration.

Tips for Choosing the Best Time for YOU

Ultimately, only you can decide the best time to work out and stay consistent. Here’s how to figure it out:

1.Examine your schedule.

Find a time that works with your daily routine. Consistency is the goal, so pick a time that’s sustainable long-term.

2. Simplify your workout plan.

Choose a program that fits your lifestyle. A plan that requires 5-6 workouts per week may not be realistic for most people. Opt for 2-4 days instead—it’s more flexible and easier to stick with.

3. Stay flexible.

Your workout schedule doesn’t have to be rigid. For example, you might work out in the morning on Mondays and in the evening on Wednesdays.

4. Commit for the long haul.

Ask yourself: “Can I keep this schedule for at least six months?” If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track.

Best Time to Work Out for Consistent Results?

Now you know there’s no universal “best time” to work out. It depends on your work, home life, and other commitments.

That said, I recommend morning workouts. They allow you to start the day strong and avoid excuses that tend to pile up later in the day. But if mornings don’t work for you, use the tips above to stay consistent and overcome obstacles.

The most important thing is to show up—even when it’s not perfect. Consistency is built through action, not excuses.

Need help creating a plan you can stick with?

Schedule a free consultation using the link below. We’ll discuss your goals, fitness history, available resources, and how to move forward. Let’s build a plan that works for YOU!

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