So you’re not a morning person; you’ve tried on several occasions to get up bright and early for a sunrise sweat “sesh” but, before you know it, you’ve spent all that time hitting the snooze button! We’ve all been there at some point. With a few simple changes to your lifestyle, you can reach that goal of becoming a morning exerciser. Take advantage of this weekend’s “fall back” time change, and enjoy the early rising of the sun with a new morning fitness routine. Here are some tips to help you make the switch:
Hire a trainer.
This doesn’t have to be a “forever” type thing, (unless you want it to), but hiring a trainer and paying beforehand has shown to help those who are not “morning people.” Set the early morning workout sessions with your trainer in advance, as this will hold you accountable. You’ll be much more motivated to get up and out the door if money is on the line and a trainer is waiting for you.
Don’t go full throttle.
If you aren’t used to working out in the morning, entering lightly into a new schedule might be the best way to make it a habit. Start with two days a week at first. Pick the days that are going to be easiest to manage and choose mornings where you can get to bed early enough the night before. If weekends are exhausting for you and you tend to have trouble sleeping after watching The Walking Dead on Sunday nights, then Monday morning might not be your best choice. Listen to your body, look ahead to your schedule and plan for the mornings that make the most sense.
Find strength in numbers.
Not only is it great to have company when working out, it will hold you accountable to showing up nice and early! Studies show that when we have committed to another individual(s) for the specific reason of working out, those who have committed are more likely to show up and succeed! Joining a morning team such as a running group, classes at your local gym or beginner boot camp, will have the same effect on accountability and execution. You’ll feel motivated to stick with your morning fitness program when others are doing it with you.
Group Fitness Trends You’ll Want to Try
Limit coffee the afternoon before.
Many sleep experts suggest having your last cup of java or caffeinated tea before 2 p.m. as caffeine can stay in your system for at least six hours afterwards. Steer clear of foods and drinks that stimulate the body and mind. This will help you get better sleep and prevent you from waking up off and on throughout the night. If you do have trouble sleeping, try an herbal tea and get off all electronics one or more hours before bed.
Get organized.
There’s nothing worse than running around like mad when we first wake up, looking for car keys, breakfast and gym shoes! Make it easier on yourself, and lay out your gym clothes, gym bag and keys all in one spot. Preparation is so important for success!
Breakfast-to-go!
To keep energy levels high, a healthy breakfast is a must for morning training. Whether you eat before you exercise or after, food prepping the night before will make it a lot easier on your morning routine. Simply grab and go! Here is an “overnight oats” recipe you may like!
Work for your alarm.
It’s easy to just roll over and hit snooze, but not when your alarm clock is across the room. Having to physically get up and get out of bed will help you refrain from hitting the snooze button. At least for more than once.
Keep in mind; although working out is great at any time, here are some pretty awesome benefits of exercising in the am:
Prompts better eating habits: Morning exercisers tend to pick a “cleaner” breakfast, and will continue to choose healthier options throughout the day.
You might experience a spike in energy: That morning sweat gives the body more energy throughout the day. You might think you’d be more tired, but morning training has the opposite effect!
You’ll sleep better at night: Morning exercisers tend to have an easier time falling asleep at night, which is great for those who battle with insomnia.
You might shed more fat: A 2010 study published in the Journal of Physiology found that exercising before breakfast helps dieters achieve better weight loss results because the body burns a greater percentage of fat for energy during exercise rather than depending on carbs from food.
– By SJ McShane
