“Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise” – Ben Franklin

With all the hustle and bustle of work, school and play, it can be difficult to find the time to exercise properly. Exercising in the morning is an excellent way to put some positive routine into your schedule and carries with it many added benefits other than just keeping you fit.

1. More Consistent = Better Long-term Results

Research shows that those who exercise in the morning are more consistent, regular exercisers than those who exercise later in the day.  Our bodies love routine. If you force yourself to get up when your alarm goes off, your body will thank you and pay you back by feeling rested and ready for the day.

2. Less Diversion

How often have you planned on working out after work and something better comes along? By getting up early, you are likely not going to miss out on any fun or get distracted by more work. Instead of scrambling to finish your day’s list missing yet another workout, plan to do it first thing so you are sure to fit it in!

3. More Productivity

Exercising increases your gets your endorphins going. You will be more awake and ready to tackle your day by giving yourself that extra energy boost. Working out can increase your mental clarity for 4 to 10 hours post-exercise. What better time to capitalize on this than at work, school or during your daily activities?

4. Boost your Metabolism

Benefits of exercising linger throughout the day. You continue to burn calories after the workout is done. Why not utilize this benefit during the day when you are eating instead of when you are sleeping. By keeping your metabolism elevated, you will be burning more calories all day long.

5. Better Sleep

Studies have shown that women and men, who wake up early for regular exercise, sleep better than those who exercise regularly in the evening. Since exercise stimulates your body, when you exercise at night, it becomes more difficult to fully relax and drift into peaceful sleep.

6. Eat Better

By knocking out your exercise first thing, you will approach your food differently during the day. You are proud of yourself for getting up and burning some calories, why taint that with an unhealthy lunch? Instead, you will want to continue your positive choices by choosing foods that help you continue feeling fresh and energized.

Research assistance provided by Ashley Ingram