Rise and Thrive: The Benefits of Morning Exercise

You can make a million excuses for not taking time to move and exercise.  The reality is the older you get, the more health problems arise.  You don’t want to wait until you are prescribed medication for something you could have prevented.  I am a pharmacist, and although prescription medicine can help you, it also comes with side effects that are sometimes worse than the medical condition. Studies show that after age 40, you add one medicine a year to your medicine cabinet!

I am part of the 5 am club.  What does this mean? This means waking up early to make time for yourself before anyone in the house wakes up! I can have my coffee in peace and have “me” time before starting my day.

Top 3 benefits of morning exercise:

1. Free from Distractions

I know that if I don’t complete my workout in the morning, I will make up a million reasons why I can’t do it during the day. I have to work, take care of the home and my kids. Between distractions from the phone, work, and everything in between, I know my workout will be pushed to the side if it is not completed first thing in the morning. 

2. Feel ready to start the day and accomplished 

During workouts, the body releases multiple hormones, including endorphins and serotonin. These hormones naturally help improve mood, cognition, and concentration.  You will feel rejuvenated and recharged after your morning exercise!

3. Have more time for other priorities

Nothing is more important than family. You won’t have to fight rush hour traffic, navigate a crowded gym (most people work out at 5 pm after work), or make excuses for not working out due to unforeseen incidences such as a sick kid or a deadline at work. 

Getting Started is the Hardest Part

If you want to become a morning exerciser, give it time. It will take 3-4 weeks to adjust to a morning routine.  You’ll also need to establish an earlier bedtime to become a morning exerciser. Anything is possible!  It takes 21 days to build a habit and three months to make it part of your life! 

Remember, any exercise is better than no exercise at all. If you find it easier to fit in a workout during your lunch break or after work, stick with the best routine.