First, let us just acknowledge that it’s excellent that you’re working out, regardless of the time of day. You may notice that quite a few fitness facilities on campus and in the community have replied to your need by staying open late or even 24 hours a day.
From a physiological standpoint, working out at night is no different than working out during the day when that is what your schedule dictates.
Just remember to hydrate before, during, and after your routine. It is also best to eat a little before you decide to train – a piece of fruit or a power bar will do the trick.
When you find yourself hungry after your workout, your body may recover better with some sustenance as well.
For tips on consuming and working out, see Is it better to eat before or after exercise?
When trying to determine which time of day is best for your workout, consider the following
• Working out at night may disrupt sleep for some individuals. When you’ve noticed a change in the sleep habits, attempt to shift your workout earlier in the evening. When possible, avoid any “workout drink” that could be caffeinated or full of sugar.
• Though research is mixed and ever-evolving, some evidence shows that individuals who workout in the morning are better able to stick to their routine. However, if another time of day works well for you, keep it up and do what feels best.
• When you are exercising at night, whether in a park or other public space, or commuting between home and a fitness facility, pay additional attention to your safety and think about locating a workout partner (safety in numbers).
As far as feeling tired during the middle of the day, that may be related to not getting enough sleep at night.
The recommended amount of sleep per night falls between 6 to 10 hours for most person.
When your nighttime exercise routine is fairly new to you, it might take your body a little time to adjust.
A lot of individuals who exercise consistently actually report experiencing more energy from their athletic endeavors.
As mentioned above, nutrition and hydration have a big impact on our bodies, namely our energy levels.
If your diet is deficient in any nutrients or high in sugars that can send your blood sugar (and energy levels) on a roller coaster, you could want to consider how to balance your meals and snacks.
Finally, you may find that squeezing in a 20 to 30 minute power nap during the day could help, not only to keep you refreshed, but to also allow for more energy while you train.
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