Should You Exercise Before Dinner?

Very few people in America exercise regularly. Those who do barely find the time to fit it into our busy schedules. A lot of us consider exercising after work since there is nearly no time in the morning. But should it be done before or after dinner? It will vary from person to person; for me there are benefits to both sides.

PROS

1.) Eat Less - Many people find that exercise decreases their overall appetite. While our bodies may crave protein after working out, if we are to sit down for a meal we will not eat as much. It is akin to drinking a glass of water immediately before supper as it lowers your appetite. As part of a diet it helps to curb eating habits.

2.) Daylight - Depending on when you normally eat dinner there simply may not be enough daylight left for an after food run. Quite a few folk will run at night, but it is not nearly as safe. Think of it this way: would you rather walk home from university at night time, alone, or during the day?

3.) Temperature - Obviously the further into the night it gets the colder it will get. This is not necessarily a bad thing in the summer; however, in the colder months, some people will experience harder breathing due to the temperature drop. Play it safe and walk while it is warm.

4.) Body Still Energized - Our bodies are still naturally pumped after work (barring a two hour drive home). As it gets closer to bed time you may start to feel a bit sluggish, tired, and many other things. Motivation becomes a huge problem as the moon rises. Use the rush of energy from the day to your advantage instead.

5.) Mates to Run With - Exercise clubs and partners are more likely to also run pre-dusk. Yours may vary.

CONS

1.) Hunger - Since most people eat lunch at different times you may be far too hungry by the end of work to exercise without eating. Moreover, it can be a real danger if your blood sugar falls to low from a lack of food. Listen to your body as it knows whether it can handle the task.

2.) Time - Family men and women may find it harder to go jogging before dinner because of family obligations. Kids want to see their parents and also get their homework checked. Everyone wants to recount their daily activities too. If it has been eight hours since they have seen each other, then it may be best to wait until the urge for closeness subsides.

3.) Too Busy - If using a gym or other facility it may be too busy immediately after work for your liking. Five to seven P.M. is probably the busiest time for most gyms as tons of people prefer to go after a long day in the office.

This list will not cover every possibility for everyone, but use it as a starting point. There is a right time for everyone. Only you can find the right one for you.