Wellness Weekly: When’s the best time to work out?

When’s the best time to work out – from the Live Well, Work Well Newsletter

A new study published in the journal Obesity explored the best time of the day to exercise to gain health benefits. Findings suggest working out between 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. is best for weight management. Morning exercisers had a lower body mass index and waist circumference than those exercising later in the day.  

Although this new research highlighted the best time of day to work out, it’s important to note that exercising at any time of the day is beneficial. Health experts say better sleep, mental health, brain health and physiological health are also important benefits of exercise. In the end, consistency is key with exercise. The type of exercise or when it’s being done isn’t as important as consistently getting in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and two days of strength training activities. As always, talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen. 

The Recreational Sports Department offers group fitness classes. Employees can attend a group fitness class by purchasing a membership through the Rec Sports Member Portal or a one-time pass for $3 at the Rec Plex front desk. Some options available at the Rec Plex include: 

  • HIIT at 1 p.m. on Mondays 
  • Zumba at 4 p.m. on Tuesdays 
  • Barre at 5 p.m. on Tuesdays 
  • Yoga at 9 a.m. on Wednesdays 
  • Pilates at noon on Thursdays 

There is also a free Mindfulness Meditation class at noon on Thursdays in the AMU Prayer and Meditation room (AMU 233). 

Marquette’s Employee Wellness Center is additonally reopening Thursday, Feb. 1. The Employee Wellness Center is a free, dedicated wellness space exclusive to Marquette faculty and staff. The facility will be open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. There will be equipment for cardio, agility, flexibility and free weight training. 

Visit the Employee Wellness Center for an Open House on Feb. 1 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to learn more about the facilities.