Sophie Okolo, MPH

Exercising first thing in the morning may seem like torture for some people. But, when you witness its benefits and feel the results, you may realize why it is so great. Exercising in the morning can have a significant and direct impact on your energy levels. If you often feel fatigued by the end of your day and due to that, miss out on exercise, then why not do it first thing in the morning? Not only will your exercise be out of the way but you will likely feel more energized throughout the day.

You don’t have to head out of the house first thing to attend a class, you can enjoy them from the comfort of your home. You may know some Tai Chi from lessons with taichiforhealthinstitute.org or be able to join a virtual personal training session. Health technology is becoming readily available to everyone. Thus, if you aren’t a morning person then you don’t have to use not having time as an excuse. Make time for your exercise by getting up a bit earlier, getting on your mat, and getting your workout complete before you start your day. It will add more structure to your day, help you focus, and maintain energy levels.

Increases oxygen levels

Increased oxygen levels result in increased energy. Exercise naturally boosts the oxygen levels within the body by expanding oxygen and increasing the rate at which it returns. Throughout the exercise, our bodies burn oxygen faster. Due to this, we intake carbon dioxide quicker. Then, your brain, lungs, and heart work at their maximum capacity to rid the carbon dioxide levels to gain more oxygen. 

Boosts metabolism

Exercise can kickstart your metabolism. As the body burns fat, your metabolism starts to work. Kickstarting your metabolism is great for many things, with energy levels being one of them. When you exercise and burn fuel, your body will expend energy. When you replace this energy with foods after exercise, your metabolism will use the food to energize your body and repair your muscles. It is suggested that working out in the morning also improves our food choices for the day. You may choose energy-boosting foods over foods that cause fatigue, which will also have benefits for your energy levels.

Better alertness

Exercise can raise our cortisol levels, which is a stress hormone that raises our alertness. A speedier reaction time suggests that energy levels are increased. Exercise also promotes and boosts our endorphins, which are feel-good neurotransmitters. A better mood can help our body and mind maintain energy levels. When you work out first thing in the morning, you are more likely to set a good tone and mood for the day ahead. When you get your exercise out of the way before you start your day at work, you will feel a sense of achievement and feel much more relaxed.