The Benefits of AM Workouts for Your Mental Health

Working out has incredible benefits in supporting our mood. But the time of day that you choose to workout can give you more added benefits overall. I used to be someone that would work

out after school or work in the early evenings. I recently made the change to get up earlier to work out before work and noticed personal changes within myself. I feel more motivated, energized, happier, and able to better focus throughout the day. I found myself feeling a lot better overall by working out in the mornings rather than in the afternoons and evenings. Of course, morning workouts may not work for everyone's schedule, but if you are able to make the change you might find that this is a great way to supplement your mental health. Here are some of the benefits to working out in the morning for your mental health:

AM workouts help you to better establish a routine

Establishing routines are great for those that experience anxiety. Anxiety feeds off of fear of the unknown and a sense of no control. Establishing a routine is a great way to add structure to your day so that you are able to ease anxious feelings.

Increased focus

Research has found that morning workouts can support better overall cognition throughout the day.

Better mood

Workouts give your body that release of those feel good endorphins. Beginning your day with a workout allows for you to carry a good mood with you throughout the rest of your day.

Increased energy

Frequent workouts help to combat fatigue. This is because of nutrients and oxygen flowing to your cardiovascular system while you are working out. This allows you to have more energy throughout the day.

Better sleep

A study had found that those who exercised early in the morning got better sleep on those days.

Increased alertness

Your body’s peak time to produce cortisol is in the morning. Working out in the morning better aligns with your body’s hormonal functions.