As the lighter mornings are finally here (we’ll refrain from mentioning the “Summer” word), many of us find ourselves contemplating the best time to lace up those running shoes. Should you get your run done before the world wakes up or wait until after your busy day? In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of morning vs evening running, helping you make an informed choice that aligns with your schedule and preferences.
Morning Runs: A Fresh Start to the Day
Waking up at the crack of dawn may not sound enticing to everyone, but there are distinct benefits to starting your day with a run. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth becoming a morning runner, here are some pros and cons to help you decide.
Pros of Morning Runs
- Energising Your Day: Exercising before your brain fully awakens can invigorate you, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. Morning runs help wake up your body and mind, often leaving you feeling more alert and productive throughout the day.
- Boosting Metabolism Starting your day with a workout can boost your metabolism, allowing you to burn more calories throughout the day. If weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight is one of your goals, morning runs might be especially beneficial.
- Time Management: Morning runs free up your evenings, granting you extra hours to relax or engage in other activities. Personally, it means more time for catching up on my favorite shows like Corrie or chilling out with friends.
- Consistency: Getting your run done early means there’s less chance of other daily commitments getting in the way. You avoid the risk of being too tired after work and skipping your workout. Starting the day with a sense of accomplishment sets a great tone for consistency in your routine.
Cons of Morning Runs:
- Early Start: Waking up earlier can be challenging, especially if you’re not naturally a morning person. The idea of pulling yourself out of a warm bed when it’s still dark outside might be a dealbreaker for some.
- Cold Temperatures (Especially in Winter)
During the colder months, morning runs can feel daunting due to lower temperatures. You’ll need to layer up, which can take a bit more preparation and may make the early mornings even less appealing.
Evening Runs: Unwind and De-Stress
For those who prefer to unwind with a run after a long day, evening runs offer their own set of advantages and considerations. If you’re not into the early alarm clocks, running in the evening might be your jam.
Pros of Evening Runs
- Stress Relief: After a long day at work, running in the evening provides an excellent way to de-stress, allowing you to wind down, clear your mind, and let go of any built-up tension. It’s like therapy on the move!
- Cooler Temperatures: In the summertime, running in the evening when temperatures have cooled down can make your run more comfortable. No one enjoys battling the sun’s intense heat, so the cooler evening air is much more pleasant.
- Social Opportunities: Many running groups and clubs meet in the evening, making it an ideal time to socialise and meet new people. Whether you’re training for a race or just enjoying a casual run, evening runs can be a great time to connect with other runners.
Cons of Evening Runs
- Procrastination Risk: One major downside of evening runs is the potential for procrastination. It’s easy to push off a run as the day goes on, convincing yourself you’ll do it later—only to find you’re too tired or have made other plans by the end of the day.
- Digestion Time: Timing your dinner right can be tricky if you prefer running in the evening. Eating too soon before your run can lead to discomfort, so you’ll need to plan your meals carefully to avoid feeling sluggish.
Which Should You Choose: Morning vs Evening Running?
The best time to run depends on your personal preference, daily routine, and goals. If running in the morning gives you more energy and frees up your evenings, it might be the best choice for you. But if you prefer unwinding after a long day or running with friends, evening runs could be a better fit.
Remember, there’s no “wrong” time to run. The key is consistency, which will help you reap the physical and mental benefits of regular running. Not sure which time suits you? Try mixing it up—run in the morning some days and in the evening on others to see what feels best.
Tips for Morning and Evening Runners
Morning Running Tips:
- Lay out your gear the night before to make your morning routine smoother.
- Fuel up with a small snack if you can’t run on an empty stomach, like a banana or an energy bar.
- Ease into your run with a dynamic warm-up to get your muscles ready for the early start.
Evening Running Tips:
- If you run after work, stay hydrated throughout the day to avoid sluggishness.
- Plan your meals so you have enough time to digest before your run.
- Consider joining a local running club for extra motivation and social interaction.
Whether you want to kickstart your day or wind down at night, running is a fantastic way to improve your fitness and mental well-being.
