Building time into your week to go to the gym can be a challenge in itself, but getting into a routine is a good habit to build for a successful workout. Often, people struggle at peak times as there are queues for gym equipment, and a crowded space can feel uncomfortable.
The best time to go to the gym depends on your own personal schedule and which time of the day you feel you workout best. Perhaps knowing when is the least crowded time and when your body responds best to working out would help you to reach your fitness goals. Keep reading to find out key considerations to make when deciding which is the best time to go to the gym.
Is it better to go to the gym in the morning or at night?
There are pros and cons of working out in both the morning and at night. Many people prefer a morning workout as it can be done first thing, meaning you don’t have to worry about it later on and have more time to relax post-workout.
Some studies have also shown that working out in the morning has several benefits, including increased metabolism to burn more calories throughout the day, a higher quality of sleep at night, and increased movement throughout the day. Additionally, working out on an empty stomach before breakfast could allow you to burn more fat.
Alternatively, your ability to perform peaks in the afternoon. Strength, flexibility, and endurance fare better during the hours of 2pm-6pm when your body temperature is at its highest. Reaction times are also quicker during this window making it ideal for HIIT workouts.
Afternoon or evening workouts may also help you to stay motivated, especially if you’re not a morning person. Motivation is the key to succeeding at the gym, and an evening workout is a great way to let go of stress built up throughout the day.
There are conflicting studies of whether a night workout allows you to sleep better, as some feel that your raised body temperature and energy levels spike which compromises your sleep. Though some feel that working out tires them out, so they can sleep much more easily. Ultimately, the best time to workout depends on the individual and what works best for you.
What time is the gym least busy?
Finding the least busy gym times can positively impact your experience at the gym. Whilst having others around you to help motivate you is helpful, queuing for machinery is not ideal. Most gyms operate around the 9-5 working cycle, opening early and closing late to cater for this. Some larger gyms are even open 24/7, allowing for increased accessibility for those with unusual working schedules. In either case, however, there are always peak times to be avoided, so let’s take a look at which hours are best to attend or avoid.
Best times to attend the gym:
- 6am: Just after the gym opens, and before the 7am crowd arrives to exercise before work.
- 10am: After the typical working day has started.
- 2pm-4pm: After lunch breaks have ended and before the work day finishes.
- 8pm: After the crowds attending straight from work have finished their workouts for the day.
Worst times to attend the gym:
- 7am-9am: The gym will be crowded by those who are getting in a pre-work session.
- 12pm: This is peak time for lunch breaks.
- 5pm-7pm: The gym will be crowded with people working out after they’ve finished their working day.
What time of day is best to go to the gym?
Figuring out which time of day is best to go to the gym depends on three things, your schedule, your preference, and peak times. If you prefer to attend the gym in the morning, then 6am is the best time, as it won’t be busy and you can continue your day as normal after your workout.
If you prefer to workout at night, 8pm is likely to be the best option as the gym will not be busy and you can follow your normal daily routine, finishing the day with a workout before heading to bed.
If you feel as though you may struggle with motivation, try joining classes if your gym offers them. They are usually included in membership and run throughout the day, including early mornings and late nights. This is a great way to get a workout in while avoiding crowds and staying motivated.
Get ready to hit the gym with Avec Sport
Whichever time you decide to hit the gym, the most important thing is that you’re attending. Working out is essential to health and wellbeing, and is a great option for training in between group sports sessions or clubs. If you’re new to the gym, why not check out our blog on what to wear? Or browse our gym wear collection to optimise your workout.
