Start Your Day With Exercise

Want to jump-start your metabolism to burn calories all day long? Exercise in the morning. Make exercise part of your morning routine until it becomes a healthy habit. It’s easier than you might think. Set your alarm clock 20 minutes or 30 minutes earlier than you normally wake. Start right in your bedroom with some stretches followed by some bodyweight exercises, such as sit-ups, push-ups or crunches. Do a little cardio, including some jumping jacks, marching in place or even jumping rope, before breakfast. Before work or the start of the rest of your day, eat a whole grain, low-fat, nutritious breakfast.

People who exercise for about 30 minutes before eating breakfast typically burn more calories throughout the day than people who do not exercise. As you lose fat and gain muscle mass, you will burn even more calories. Muscle requires more energy than fat, so the stronger you get the more calories you burn.

You can sleep better at night if you start your day with some exercise. You may also be in a better mood all day long. When you exercise your brain releases endorphins, or the “feel good” hormones, that improves your mood and gives you a sense of well-being. Start your day energized and feeling good. You’ll lose weight and have more energy all day long.