Exercise: The Worst Time is Better Than No Time

When you exercise right after eating a big meal, that could be the worst time to do that sort of thing. Health and fitness experts tell us to wait at least 30 minutes after a meal to exercise.

Associated Content Contributor Jody Morse writes that morning workouts are considered to be ideal in her article: When Is The Best Time to Exercise? Morse advised drinking water, eating a snack or a light meal before heading to the gym. I don't think having a sausage biscuit and grits is what she had in mind.

For folks with crazy schedules like mine, you begin to realize after two more inches on the waist that walking after a meal may not be the best choice. It's still better than not exercising at all.

That's been the case with me these last couple days. The noble intention is to do a 30 minute self-styled aerobic workout first thing in the morning. Listening to an upbeat CD or watching a sitcom, the minutes of marching in place, lifting my legs like a drum major pass quicker. I'm lifting my legs so high, my knees are slapping the flab on my belly. Add to that some upper body exercises, fast walking room to room, side twists and assorted floor exercises and my 30 minutes are up. I'm sweating, panting and drinking a 16 ounce glass of cold water. By this time I'm ready for breakfast.

I started exercising consistently after 18 years back in November last year. Hubby and I started out together 4-5 mornings a week. When he dropped out, I felt compelled and determined to keep going,

And I did. Until about a month ago when the CD I listened to became so uninspiring. The knee flapping against my flabby gut just didn't excite anymore.

I decided to take a break, maybe a week or two. Almost five weeks later, I struggle to get back the consistency I'd lost.

Lately, I've been wanting to take a long aerobic walk right after a big breakfast or lunch. I gave in to my urges two days in a row. Hopefully I'll get my schedule and exercise regimen synchronized again. In the meantime, here are a few tips from fitness experts on the best times of day to exercise for maximum calorie burn or other health perks:

Morning workouts have been considered by fitness professionals to be the best time of day to burn calories, stimulate metabolism and build muscle.

Late afternoon workouts, the time between 2 and 4 p.m., are said to be better than morning. In the afternoon, muscles are stronger, and the participant is more awake and alert.

Is there any benefit to exercising at night? Some experts claim there is if the person is a night owl. This group don't get revved up until nightfall, and that is the ideal time for them to exercise.

Now, if you will excuse me, I just finished some sausage, wheat toast, jelly and coffee. Got a one and a half mile aerobic walk to do.