Is there more to early mornings than coffee?
By nature I have never been an early riser. I’m more of a mid-morning riser. I think if I could have my way I would probably go to bed around 11 and wake up around 7.
But life isn’t like that.
My job has required me to show up around 7 AM for the last decade or so. Sometimes even earlier. Evenings dictated by my kids’ needs and routines as well as spousal accommodations certainly shape my time away from work.
The 5 AM Wake Up Call
I especially never liked waking up and working out in the early morning. A few years ago, my wife bought me a gym pass and literally the only time I could attend a class would be the 5 AM time slot.
I loathed it.
I fought it.
Then I gave in.
For years I would drag myself out of to hit the gym at 5 AM. This tradition continues to this day as my F3 group usually meets at 5:15.
Now, more often than not I wake up early and get some exercise. If it’s not to meet the F3 guys, it’s to get a quite run in by myself around the neighborhood.
3 Benefits Of Exercising In The Early Morning
As much as I used to loathe it- I know really appreciate the early morning workout for the following reasons.
1. It Wakes Your Brain Up For The Day
By the time many of my colleagues are just reaching for their coffee- I have already sweated, lifted, or stretched for at least 30 minutes if not for 60. This means blood to my brain started early and has been going for some time by the time I clock in. My brain is awake, thinking, and ready for my day.
2. Endorphins Are Pumping
Not only is my heart and brain awake and ready to take on what the morning brings me- but the all important endorphins are also circulating around my body. These feel good chemicals are lifting my mood, and sharpening my thinking. It’s a bonus, especially on winter mornings when it’s tough to get going anyway.
3. It Helps Set Your Circadian Rhythms
Not only does it help with the morning, but my evenings go better do. I wasn’t just chained to my computer all day. I have already worked my body out. Now, my brain and my body will be more ready for sleep once the kids are in bed and I’m reading a book in the evening hours. This helps me keep my circadian rhythms in balanced, provides better sleep, and overall a healthy routine for my body.