By: Amy Daines: Science and Nature Editor
Exercise is a very important aspect of being an athlete. It keeps the body in shape and helps the mind stay clear and focused. There is no argument that working out is extremely beneficial for the body, especially if it becomes a habit. Many people find different ways to exercise that work for them, and everyone is different. Some people like working out in the morning, and some like doing it late at night. But which is more healthy?
Some people enjoy working out in the morning the most because it is easier to get up and get going. For athletes who make the sacrifice to wake up early, it is usually easier to focus on their workout. By exercising before starting the day’s to-do list, athletes are able to completely focus on their workout because they are not worried about the responsibilities they have to take care of that day. Another benefit is that exercising early can give athletes an extra energy boost to get through the day. The body is already awake and ready to go for whatever the day brings. In addition, for those who like to go outside when they exercise, like runners, doing it earlier allows them to beat the heat. Temperatures are almost always cooler early in the morning, resulting in better focus and performance.
While there are benefits to exercising in the morning, there are also some disadvantages. One is a lack of sleep. Early risers may be losing sleep at night because they are getting up so early to work out. Sleep is a very important part of staying healthy, and losing sleep can result in lower performance and less energy for athletes. Also, if someone works out right after they wake up, they would have to carve out extra time to warm up their body. It is unreasonable for an athlete to hit the weights right after they rolled out of bed. This would be bad for the body and could result in injury.
Evening workouts are also an option for those athletes who are definitely not morning people. Working out at night can be a good way for people to unwind from the day. Many people love using exercise as a coping mechanism for stress, and doing it in the evening can help calm them down after a stressful day at school. Night workouts are a good way to unwind and feel some peace before turning in for the night. Outdoor evening workouts also beat the heat, and can be very beautiful at night. “I really enjoy running at night. The atmosphere is very peaceful and the moon is so bright,” said Josh Carson (‘26). “It is truly something amazing.”
However, working out at night also has its drawbacks. Nighttime workouts can disrupt sleep patterns and make it harder to fall asleep after the body is energized from all its exercise. Additionally, for student athletes at Brighton High School, dinner is almost always pushed back to a late hour by practice.
If done improperly, working out at night can severely interrupt healthy eating and sleeping patterns.
Regardless of whether it is in the morning or evening, exercising regularly is a very important part of life. It is important for everyone to find a consistent routine that works for them, whether it be before or after the sun rises.
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