Q&A for How to Determine the Best Time to Exercise

Think about when you most have energy: is it in the morning or evening? Some people like to exercise after work while others may be too tired.

It can be! Working out in the morning lets you get your exercise out of the way before your day starts. You'll be more productive and also have more energy and mental clarity.

Since it is not recommended to perform vigorous exercise immediately after eating, try to eat lunch after the workout. Ideally, have a small part of your lunch (carbs preferably, such as fruit) before exercise and eat the rest of your lunch (protein and carbs) after exercise. You'll give your workout a bit of energy and provide the muscle-building fuel when your body needs it — post-workout.

You are most flexible in the evening when your muscles are warmed up and have been moving all day.

If you want to introduce exercise regularly, start small and do two workouts of 20-30 minutes each. If your do this regularly, aim to complete a minimum of 45-60 mins twice a day.

Building hypertrophy depends a lot on your body type. For example: Mesomorph, endomorph, ectomorph. When lifting weights, it's important to understand the amount of repetitions max vs load. The heavier the weight, the lower the reps. Keeping the repetitions between 6-8 reps (with heavier weights done in good form) will help you build muscle more than doing 9-12 reps (which in turn will build strength and help you tone). Keep in mind that your form should be your priority. By the time you hit your rep 4-6 you should struggle, 6-8 you should feel like you cannot do them anymore (in good form). Change your workout routine every 6 weeks and make sure to give your muscles a 48 hour rest.