Why? For one, morning exercisers are more likely to stick with their workout routine. That is because they get it done and out of the way first thing when they wake up -- before work, family and life can get in the way.
There's another bonus for working out in the a.m.: "Morning exercise also helps wake you up, rev up your metabolism, and give you energy for the rest of the day," says Steve Stiefel, author of Fit In 15.
But what if you're not a morning workout person? Try these tips to get you motivated -- and moving:
Tips to get you moving in the morning
Lay out your gym attire the night before, charge your iPod and have everything ready before you go to bed. You won't have to waste time searching for your fitness gear when you wake up.Go to bed early so you have sufficient sleep. And don't stay up late on weekends to avoid slipping out of routine come Monday morning.
Wake up to an alarm set on an upbeat song and put it across the room, so you're forced to get out of bed to turn it off.
Do jumping jacks for 10 seconds as a wake-me-up move when you get off the bed.
Make a date with an exercise buddy -- you won't hit the snooze button if you are obligated to meet with a friend.
Eat a light snack before exercise. If you're hungry and sluggish, eat something first. Stiefel recommends a small amount of carbs and protein, such as a piece of toast with peanut butter, or a piece of fruit and a handful of nuts.
Cancel your newspaper subscription. Instead, walk to the store to get your morning papers. To rev up the workout, brisk-walk.
Change things up. Every now and then, try a different walking/jogging route, make a new playlist of music to exercise to, and mix up your routine to keep things interesting.
