When it comes to weight loss and keeping the kilos off, we all know exercise plays an important part. Which is a real bummer if you lack that Michelle Bridges kind of motivation. Or just don’t like exercise.
So when is the best time of day to exercise? Read on to find out!
A recent US study revealed if you really want to make the most of your exercise, no matter what it is – you should do it at the same time each day. It’ll soon become a scheduled habit your body will thank you for and before you know it, your jeans might just be a little less squeezy.
Consistency is key in weight loss
A study led by researchers from Brown Alpert Medical School in the US has shown it all comes down to your level of commitment, more so than your activity of choice. Which let’s be honest, isn’t so much of a surprise. It really doesn’t matter if you’re sweating it out to Bikram yoga at sunrise or a sunset weightlifter, it’s the consistency that’s key in the weight loss game.
Watch the clock
With regards to the timing of exercise, it seems the early-bird gets the habitual worm. A study revealed people who exercise between 4am and midday continued to exercise consistently and were more successful in their weight loss, as opposed to those who left it until later in the afternoon or evening. That’s not to say it doesn’t count if you exercise later, it’s just suggested it might be easier in the morning. You do you though.
Make exercise a habit
It’s been said it takes 21 days to form a habit. I’ve also read it takes an average of 66 days to form a habit. Be it 21 or 66 days, if you repeat the activity at the same time day in, day out, you can rest assured you WILL form a habit. A healthy one at that. GO YOU!
How much exercise do I need?
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, it’s recommended that:
- adults are active on most, preferably all, days every week
- accumulate 150 to 300 minutes (2½ to 5 hours) of moderate-intensity physical activity
- or 75 to 150 minutes (1 ¼ to 2 ½ hours) of vigorous-intensity physical activity
- or an equivalent combination of both moderate and vigorous activities, each week
- AND do muscle-strengthening activities on at least 2 days each week
In summary, that’s more than a casual stroll around the supermarket, yeah? Damnit. We’re talking getting your heart rate up, not just incidental I-walk-all-day-at-work kind of exercise.
Around the globe, just under a third of women and nearly a quarter of all men aren’t engaging in a level of physical activity that will keep them on the right side of healthy.
Make exercise a part of your daily routine
Just like we tend to go to work at the same time each day, pick up the kids from school each day, prepare meals and so on, we NEED to make exercise a mindless, consistent activity just like these. Pick up the kids from school and hit the park for half an hour on the way home for a run, brisk walk or work the free outdoor gym – wrangle it into your daily routine any way you can!
Something is always better than nothing
It’s also important to remember that at the end of the day, some exercise is better than no exercise. A slow walk or job is better than no walk or jog. Do keep in mind the stats above though, and perhaps make them a goal for your continued good health!
If you’ve got your exercise regimen down to a fine art but the diet can do with some work, check out this mum’s amazing weight loss journey! Let’s also not forget our very own Mum Central Founder, Belinda, and how she transformed her mind and body with astounding results.
