Does Working Out at the Gym at Night Affect Your Sleep?
Does Working Out at Night Mess Up My Sleep?
It’s a question we get asked a lot at our Coastal Bodies gym: “Will working out in the evening make it harder for me to sleep?” Since you might be wondering the same thing, here’s our answer!
The Short Answer: It Depends.
Exercise is a fantastic way to reduce stress, improve mood, and tire you out in the best way possible, which can naturally help you sleep better. In fact, regular exercise is known to improve sleep quality by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Many people find that they sleep like a baby after a good workout!
But Here’s the Catch…
For some, working out too close to bedtime can actually have the opposite effect, making it difficult to fall asleep. Why? It all comes down to your body’s hormones and temperature. After an intense workout, your body might still be buzzing with energy, and your temperature could still be elevated—two things that can delay the onset of sleep. This is especially true if you’re engaging in high-intensity activities like cardio or weight training late in the evening.
The Best Approach? Experiment!
Figuring out the ideal time for your workouts is all about listening to your body. Everyone is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. Some people find that working out in the morning gives them more energy throughout the day, while others feel more productive after an afternoon or evening session.
The key is to pay attention to how your body responds to different workout times and make adjustments accordingly.
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