Workout like a werewolf under the full moon
Eight reasons to exercise on the dark side
It’s that time of year when you may hear things that go bump in the night. But it’s not just witches and werewolves doing their Halloween thing – you could be listening to the sounds of people knocking out burpees and lunges. Here’s why leaving your sweat sesh until after dark can have huge benefits...
1 YOU’LL WORK HARDER
Research from the University of Birmingham has shown that people who work out in the evenings can last up to 20 minutes longer than those smug early birds. Apparently, our bodies work best anaerobically around 11 hours after we wake up and are able to take in oxygen faster. So, heading out for a run is often more effective at night as you’ll be able to go harder, for longer.
2 YOU’LL TONE UP MORE QUICKLY 3 IT’LL HELP YOU SLEEP BETTER
If you’ve done an evening workout, you’re more likely to fall into a deep sleep once you hit the sack. This could be due to the rise in body temperature that works in a similar way to a hot bath. Plus, a cool-down is a great way to get your body to the optimum temperature to doze off. Weightresistance exercises also promote a more prolonged sleeping time.
4 THERE’S NO GYMIDATION
Fitness studios favoured by celebs, such as BXR, Barry’s Bootcamp and Soul Cycle, have taken to running their classes with the lights dimmed. Not only does this reduce your inhibitions, allowing you to really get in the zone, it’s also less distracting.
5 IT’S GOOD FOR YOUR SKIN
Exercising outside at night has no nasty UV effects, so there’s no need to apply an SPF. It’s often much more peaceful at this time, too, so it’s great if you enjoy the meditative effects of an exercise like running.
6 YOU CAN BATTLE YOUR DAY DEMONS
Had a rubbish day at work? Feeling frustrated after a day wrangling with the kids? Then thrash out your feelings in an evening workout and give yourself a nice big rush of endorphins. You will end the day on a high.
7 IT’S EASIER TO ASK FOR HELP
In the morning, the gym floor is often busy with people squeezing in their workout before heading to the office, so the staff have to deal with lots of clients. In the evening, the gym is likely to be quieter, so it’s easier to ask for some advice or guidance.
8 IT CAN BE FUN (WE PROMISE!)
There’s a growing trend for swapping socialising at a bar for meeting up with your mates at an exercise class. You’re less likely to cancel on a class if you’re going with a friend, and once you’re taking part, it makes the whole sweating in Lycra thing more fun.