The best time to run depends on your goals and preferences, but running in the evening, specifically between 5 and 7 pm, can be advantageous for performance and decompression.
While there's no single "best" time for everyone, consider these points:
-
Evening Runs for Decompression: As the reference states, running in the evening can help you unwind and de-stress after a long day. This can be a major benefit if you're using running as a way to manage stress.
-
Evening Runs for Potential Performance Boost: According to the reference, "At the end of the day your body is ready for the effort and the window from 5 to 7 pm is often conducive to good performance." If you have a training plan that calls for a long run, the early evening may be ideal.
Here's a table summarizing potential benefits of each time:
| Time of Day | Potential Benefits |
|---|---|
| Morning | Starting the day with exercise, potentially improved metabolism, cooler temperatures (depending on location). |
| Evening | Decompressing after work or school, potentially better performance, body ready for effort. |
Ultimately, the "right" time to run is the time that you'll consistently stick to. Experiment with both morning and evening runs to see which one you enjoy more and which one fits better into your lifestyle.
