You either aren’t one or you are… Yes, we are talking about being that notorious “morning person” – the type of person anxious to tackle and seize the day! While those warm covers may inhibit the desire to become one, growing to be the so-called “early bird” can take your goals to the next level. So rather than sleeping until afternoon hours, tackling that morning workout can energize you for not just the morning, but enhance energy levels throughout the day’s entirety!
How to Exercise in the Morning
1. Slowly Cultivate an Early Bedtime
You are more apt to rise n’ shine after achieving an adequate night’s rest. So rather than continuing that night owl lifestyle, start developing into an early bird! Start training and tricking yourself into an earlier bedtime by gradually moving it up. Considering recommendations suggest seven to nine hours of sleep each night, try to plan your sleep schedule accordingly (and turn off all electronics)!
2. Wake and Brighten Up
Yes, pressing that infamous snooze button may be much easier to hit than hitting your feet on the cool ground during early hours. So if you need a more aggressive wake-up call, set two alarms or assign one across the room. And by placing your alarm by the light switch, you can brighten up the room when retrieving it! A light stimulator may also be a valuable purchase, as they mimic natural lighting to nurture effective sleep-wake cycles.
3. Be Prepared
A few less tasks in the early hours offers more time to enjoy a morning workout and time for yourself! Have not only workout clothes arranged, but work attire ready-to-go. And if unable to sit down and enjoy breakfast, have it ready to grab along with lunch to take. And do not forget about programming the coffee maker for that much-deserved cup of joe!
4. Find Workouts You Enjoy
You are more apt to bounce out of bed if you are looking forward to a workout! And considering workouts should not feel like a dreaded chore, they should certainly be enjoyed. Especially if new to the exercise scene, start experimenting with various workout routines – sign up for a yoga or boxing class, head to a running trail, or even try a new gym.
5. Sign a Contract
Whether it be to a communal gym or local yoga studio, committing to a contract can motivate you to frequent the service, as recurring payments may obligate a more recurring use. Importantly, too, be sure to sign a contract with a place or activity you know you will be enjoying!
6. Work Out with A Buddy
Along with discovering workouts you enjoy, make it more enjoyable with a workout buddy! Doing so can also motivate (and maybe even obligate) you to workout. If tackling home workouts or neighborhood runs, take turns going to one another’s place. Agreeing on the same workout contract can further bind incentive to achieving those morning workouts. But if your workout buddy is struggling with motivation themselves, supply them with this list to become a morning workout person!
