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Whether to exercise in morning or in evening? The simplest answer is – whichever convenient time. But from a scientific Ayurvedic view-point, the matter can be debated to arrive at the right time for exercise.  

Traditional Ayurvedic Concept – Most of the Ayurvedic text books explain morning as the best time for gym.

Tridosha concept -

Effect of exercise on Dosha –  Exercise helps to calm Kapha, and increase Vata Dosha. Exercise when done in Pitta dominant factor  (like exercising under afternoon Sun) causes Pitta increase along with Vata increase.

Tridosha in a day - 

If we divide a day into three equal parts,

• The first part of the day is dominated by Kapha Dosha (That is why you tend to be calmer during morning hours, and prefer silence.)
• Second Part of the day is dominated by Pitta Dosha  (That is why you tend to be aggressive and active during afternoon hours)and
• Third Part of the day is dominated by Vata Dosha. (That is why you tend to be active socially or tend to be more talkative, during evening hours.)

Kapha Dosha dominance refers to strength and stability. So, during morning, the natural body strength is more and exercise will help to further strengthen the body.

Exercise is an activity that directly increases Vata dosha and naturally, during evening there is Vata dominance, hence exercise in evening will further increase Vata.

Example for exercise increasing Vata - 

Foot pain is a Vata imbalance symptom (at the knees).  If you exercise, then foot pain will further worsen. Meaning, exercise is further vitiating already increased Vata.

Hence exercise in evening may cause more tiredness.

In some people, exercise at night may worsen headache and lack of sleep

Benefits of exercise in the evening - 

• Some people may have free time only in evening hours. It is better for them to exercise in evening, than avoiding any physical activity.
• For some people, tiredness caused due to exercise at night may help sleep better.
• If outdoor games are your choice of physical activity, evening is a better time as the mind will be totally relaxed and there will be lesser time constraint.

Those who are already well-accustomed to exercise during evening hours, then it is better to stick to the same.

Bottom line

• If you have both the options, then opt for exercise in morning.
• If you are left with no option but evening hours or if you are accustomed, then exercise in evening is a good choice.

Related topic – Exercise Tips To Get Fit Over 40