Cardio is short for cardiovascular exercise and refers to any physical activity that raises your heart rate and increases blood circulation. This type of exercise primarily targets the cardiovascular system, improving heart and lung health, and is generally considered healthy. It also offers numerous benefits, such as strengthening the heart muscle, reducing the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, enhancing lung function, and helping to maintain a healthy weight. Cardio can be done in many ways, including running, cycling, swimming, and dancing.
However, while any time of the day is a good time for cardio, morning workouts are especially effective. Performing your cardio in the morning helps set a positive tone for the rest of the day and provides several other significant advantages.
Boosts energy
The endorphins produced by your body during exercise help boost mood and motivation throughout the day. If you feel groggy or sluggish in the morning, a brisk walk or lap swim is what you need to regain your energizer.
Improves brain function
According to a study published in the journal Nutrients, doing your cardio in the morning can optimize alertness, processing speed, working memory, and attention span. It can even help you stay focused at work or school. Your morning exercise sessions increase cerebral blood flow, boosting performance and concentration.
Increases your metabolism
By doing low to moderate-intensity cardio on an empty stomach, you can burn mainly fat rather than carbohydrates while exercising. This helps you achieve a lean and fit physique.
Lowers risk for type 2 diabetes
A study found that people who exercised in the morning reduced their chances of developing type 2 diabetes by 1 percent more than those who worked out in the afternoon or evening. This is likely because morning exercise sessions don’t interfere with a person’s typical daily activities.
Regulates blood pressure
A workout session in the morning can help keep your blood pressure under control, which is beneficial for a wide range of reasons. It decreases the risk of stroke and heart disease, reduces the likelihood of osteoporosis and arthritis, and helps manage stress levels.
Adds consistency
Once you establish a habit of working out in the morning, it can be easier to stick with your routine and avoid slipping up later in the day. This can make it more likely that you’ll continue your cardio workouts in the future.
Getting up and exercising before most of the world is awake may seem challenging, but it can be a rewarding experience once you’ve achieved your fitness goals. The feeling of accomplishing something before the rest of the world is awake can motivate you to push yourself harder and get more out of your workout. Moreover, it can also give you an early energy boost that can last throughout the day, helping to keep you motivated while exercising and making it easier to choose healthier food choices.
