Many people have asked me, “When is the best time to exercise?” My answer is, “Whenever you can.”

Research shows that there are many benefits to exercising in the morning. Exercise revs up your metabolism and can help keep you burning more calories for hours. I know for me that exercising in the morning works best for many reasons. First, it ensures that the demands of my day won’t cause me to cancel it. Second, it has a tremendous effect on how I feel.

Not only do I feel more energetic, but I also have a sense of accomplishment that positively affects my mood. I experience better concentration and focus throughout the day, and can even tell a difference in my appetite. Not only do I experience a decreased desire for certain foods, but I am more motivated to make better food choices because I am more aware of not sabotaging my own fitness efforts.

Being able to accomplish all of these benefits makes morning workouts a worthwhile goal. An added benefit of regular exercise is that the quality of our sleep improves, and we sleep sounder. This means that getting up an hour earlier to exercise does not necessarily mean that we have to go to bed an hour earlier, because as the quality of our sleep improves, we may require less sleep. But really, what would it hurt to sacrifice a little late-night TV for a stronger, healthier, and more rested body?

Now, I am going to turn right around and tell you that if you just can’t work out in the morning, fine, then don’t. I know people who work out for 30 minutes every day during their lunch hour at work. I know people who have worked out during their baby’s afternoon nap time. I know people who work out in the evenings. One of my good friends works out whenever she can, be it mornings or evenings. Her goal is simply to get in 4 workouts per week. She is disciplined enough not to need a schedule. Just remember, when you work out is not nearly as important as if you work out.