Which is the best time of the day to walk? Is it morning or evening?

September 19, 2014 by  
Filed under Tips for Ayurveda

Many have this query …which is the best time of the day to walk? Is it morning or evening?

How to prevent and control diabetesMorning walk is certainly better than Evening walk mainly due to the reason that the air is less polluted, we will breathe fresh air which is helpful for our body. There is oxygen abundantly available in the air as plants produce oxygen in the presence of sunlight.

Popular saying: An early morning walk is a blessing for the whole day-Henry David Thoreau

Morning walk is better than Evening walk

There is a huge difference in doing morning walk and evening walk. It is proven that most morning walkers have reduced attraction to food hogging , strictly follow diet and they are able to complete more activity in the remaining part of the day. The main benefit for morning walking is that it raises your heart rate and metabolism to burn calories earlier in the day. Morning walk improves mental ability and sharpness. There are fewer distractions and the exercise will keep you active throughout the day.

In the evenings the air becomes polluted and lot of traffic also is on the roads. You cannot always find time in the evenings especially due to personal engagements in the family and after work it is sometimes impossible due to stress or extended work schedules. Plants produce Co2 in the evenings and therefore there is lack of fresh air. However if you are staying in colonies-gated communities the effect of pollution will be lesser and therefore you can plan for an evening stroll maybe after dinner.

Indoor exercises can be recommended in the evenings as for most people, body temperature and hormone levels peak at 6 p.m. Exercising 2 to 3 hours before or after the peak will give your best workout for both stamina and building muscle. In the evenings the muscles are warm and flexible.

The Best Time to walk

There are no repercussion by walking. Walking can only do you good. The best time to walk is the time that will fit best into your schedule so you can do it consistently. Experts agree — it is not the time of day that matters as much as finding the time you can set aside consistently for your exercise and workouts.

Weather conditions also have to be considered. When it is raining you can think of different ways- maybe walking in the corridor of your flat.

Also read:Gargling Salt water in the Morning Improves Health

Make walking a habit-a rhythm

morning-walk-is-better-than-evening-walkI know of people who use steps rather than a lift even if they have to go 3 to 4 floors . To remain healthy each one of us must exercise. Whether you choose to walk in the morning or the evening, it is best to decide on a time of day that you can stick with so it becomes a habit. Finding a time when you feel energized, either morning or evening, and when it’s convenient for you will help you stick to your exercise routine.

If you try to plan your walking regimen when it’s difficult to enjoy because your brain isn’t awake yet or has started to shut down for the night, it will be a struggle to get out and walk regularly. Listen to your body’s natural rhythm to determine the best time of day for your brisk walk.

Ayurveda, the science of life also advocates on walking in the morning, infact before the sunrise. Practice yoga and meditation to keep away stress and depression.

Recommended duration for walking

Regardless of what time of day you schedule your walk, the recommendation is that you walk briskly for 30 to 60 minutes at least five days a week.

Increase your distance and duration of walking gradually. Start with a warm up. Wear proper footwear to prevent pains and slips. You can walk fast for 2 minutes and then slow down for a minute to ensure heart rate. Brisk walking will be advantageous for people looking out for weight loss. However consult your doctor and decide on the duration of walk and the speed you need to follow.

Do not expect result in a day. Whatever time of the day you chose to walk make it a habit, a daily routine and the benefits of the new schedule will be reflected in your health and energy levels.

So why wait…get going!!

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