Should You Work Out Before Bed? Here’s What You Need to Know
Ever had a late-night burst of energy and thought, Maybe I should just hit the gym?
Or maybe your schedule is so packed that nighttime is the only time you can work out?
If so, you’ve probably wondered: Is working out before bed a good or bad idea? Some people swear it helps them sleep better, while others say it keeps them wired all night.
So, what’s the truth? Let’s break it down.
First things first—exercising at night isn’t inherently bad. The old myth that working out before bed will completely wreck your sleep? Not always true.
In fact, studies show that for most people, moderate exercise in the evening doesn’t negatively affect sleep—and in some cases, it might actually improve it!
But (and this is a big but), the type of workout and how close it is to bedtime can make a huge difference.
If you’re doing something intense—think heavy lifting, HIIT workouts, or long cardio sessions—your body temperature, heart rate, and adrenaline levels spike.
This can leave you feeling more wired than relaxed, making it harder to wind down for sleep. If you find that’s the case, try finishing your workout at least 90 minutes before bed to give your body time to cool down and transition into rest mode.
On the other hand, lighter workouts—like yoga, stretching, or even a casual evening walk—can actually help you sleep better. These activities can reduce stress, relax your muscles, and signal to your body that it’s time to unwind. If your goal is better sleep, swapping out intense workouts for gentler movements in the evening might be the way to go.
So, should you work out before bed? It really depends on how your body reacts. If late-night workouts leave you feeling restless, try shifting them earlier.
But if you feel fine and it’s the best time for your schedule, go for it—just be mindful of what kind of workout you’re doing. At the end of the day, the best workout is the one that fits into your life and keeps you consistent.
Bottom line? Listen to your body. If evening workouts work for you, keep going! If they mess with your sleep, adjust accordingly. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—just find what makes you feel your best and stick with it.
Tiana Joelle