I used to work out whenever I felt like it. You know, wake up with no plan and see how the day goes. Sometimes the workout was in the morning, and other times late in the evening.
I discovered that my best workouts happened in the morning and set the tone for the rest of my day. My workouts improved, and my sleep improved, which was huge for me.
What makes working out so magical before the rest of the world wakes up? I’m here to break down exactly why morning workouts are the best and how they can completely transform your fitness game, productivity, and overall well-being.
1. You Actually Get It Done (No More Excuses)
I get it, life happens. Work meetings run late, your couch starts looking extra inviting, or a last-minute dinner plan pops up. When you plan to work out in the evening, there are endless excuses to skip it.
Morning workouts? You’re getting it done before distractions take over. No matter what the rest of the day throws at you, you’ve already crushed your workout. It’s a game-changer for consistency.
Pro Tip: If waking up early is a struggle, set your workout clothes next to your bed, prep your water bottle and snack the night before.
2. Boosts Your Energy & Productivity All Day Long
Ever feel sluggish in the mornings? A workout will wake you up better than coffee. Exercise increases blood flow and releases endorphins (those feel-good chemicals) that leave you energized for hours.
Studies show that morning workouts improve focus, memory, and productivity. That means you’re walking into work or starting your day already ahead of everyone else.
Pro Tip: Pair your workout with a post-exercise protein-packed breakfast (think eggs, Greek yogurt, or a smoothie) to fuel your body and brain.
3. Helps with Weight Loss & Fat Burning
Morning workouts kickstart your metabolism, keeping you burning calories long after you’re done. It’s like setting your body on a fat-burning autopilot.
You can choose to workout out in a fasted state (no food) or eat something before. If you are going to do intense exercise or lifting heavy weights I would suggest to eat a little something first.
Now, I know it can be really early when you are about to go into your workout and food may not be appealing. In my experience eating food that won’t fill you up too much and is simple will keep you consistent.
My favorites are:
- Bananas (favorite, fast acting carbs, easy digest, easy to eat and good on the go)
- Apples
- Granola bar
- Oranges/Juice
- Greek Yogurt w/honey
- Toast
4. Builds Mental Toughness & Discipline
There’s something empowering about waking up early and pushing through a workout before most people have even hit snooze. It builds mental strength, discipline, and a mindset that carries over into every part of your life.
If you can commit to waking up and training, imagine how much easier it’ll be to stick to other habits like eating clean, staying productive, and crushing your goals.
5. Better for Your Sleep Cycle & Recovery
Ever hit the gym late at night, only to struggle falling asleep? That’s because intense workouts boost cortisol and adrenaline, which can keep you wired when you should be winding down.
Morning workouts align with your natural circadian rhythm, helping you sleep deeper and recover better. Plus, getting sunlight in the morning (like during a morning run) helps regulate your body’s clock, making it easier to fall asleep at night.
Pro Tip: If you struggle with sleep, try shifting your workouts earlier in the day and limit screen time before bed. For better sleep read Unlocking the Power of Sleep: Why it’s Vital for Your Health
6. Your Workouts Will Feel Easier (Once You Adjust)
At first, working out in the morning feels brutal, but stick with it. Over time, your body adapts to early exercise, and it actually starts feeling easier than evening workouts.
Your body naturally releases testosterone and cortisol in the morning, which can help with strength and endurance. Once you get used to it, you’ll probably start feeling stronger and performing better in your workouts.
After about three weeks to a month of consistently waking up early it really does become easier, almost second nature. You get to the point where you wake up before your alarm goes off!
7. Less Crowded Gyms = Faster, Better Workouts
Ever tried hitting the gym after work? It’s usually packed, you’re waiting for machines, and people are hogging the squat rack. In the morning? It’s practically empty.
That means no waiting, fewer distractions, and a quicker, more efficient workout. You get in, get out, and start your day without wasting time.
Pro Tip: If you go to a gym, find out their least busy hours and aim to go during that window. You’ll get way more done in less time.
8. Sets the Tone for a Healthier Day
There’s a weird psychological trick that happens when you work out in the morning—you suddenly want to make healthier choices the rest of the day.
You’ve already put in the effort, so skipping the office donuts or drinking more water feels natural. This “halo effect” keeps you on track with your fitness goals without feeling forced.
Pro Tip: Follow your workout with a healthy meal (Protein packed) to keep the momentum going. It’s much easier to stay on track when you start strong.
9. Improves Your Mood & Lowers Stress
Exercise releases endorphins and serotonin, aka the ultimate mood boosters. Starting your day with a workout can reduce stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression.
Instead of dragging yourself out of bed dreading the day, you’ll start it feeling accomplished, energized, and positive. Morning workouts are basically free therapy.
10. You’ll Have Evenings Free for Fun & Relaxation
This one might be my favorite. After a long day, the last thing you want to do is drag yourself to the gym. By working out in the morning, your evenings are totally free for socializing, hobbies, or just relaxing.
You’re no longer stuck between “Should I go to the gym or go out with friends?” because you already crushed your workout. More freedom, less stress, and still making gains? Win-win.
Pro Tip: Use your free evenings for recovery—stretch, take a bath, or just chill out so you’re ready to do it all again the next morning. For more tips on recovery check out Recovery Done Right: Sleep, Nutrition and Tools to Boost Your Performance.
How to Start a Morning Workout Routine (Even if You’re Not a Morning Person)
- Sleep Earlier – Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep so waking up isn’t painful.
- Prep Everything the Night Before – Lay out your clothes, gym gear, and water bottle to eliminate excuses.
- Start Small – Begin with a 10–15 minute workout and gradually increase intensity.
- Have a Plan – Know exactly what workout you’re doing to avoid wasting time.
- Use an Alarm Across the Room – Forces you to get up and not hit snooze.
- Make it Fun – Listen to a killer playlist or find a workout you actually enjoy.
- Stay Consistent – It takes time to adjust, but stick with it for a few weeks, and it’ll get easier.
- Know your why – What are your goals? Why are you getting up early to workout? When you don’t feel like getting up remind yourself what your why is. Is it to lose weight and be a better role model to your kids? Is it to get off blood pressure medication? Or maybe to be able to move better without pain? Your WHY can be a very powerful on your fitness journey.
Final Thoughts
Morning workouts aren’t just about fitness—they’re about taking control of your day before it takes control of you. They set you up for success, boost your energy, and make it way easier to stay consistent with your goals.
Give it a shot for a couple of weeks, and you might just become a morning workout person for life. Let’s get after it!
