First, let’s just acknowledge that it’s great that you are working out, regardless of the time of day. You could notice that a number of fitness facilities on campus and in the community have responded 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 if that is what your schedule dictates.

Just remember to hydrate before, during, and after your routine. It’s also best to eat a little prior to deciding to train – a piece of fruit or a power bar will do the trick.

If you find yourself hungry after your workout, your body may recover better with some sustenance as well.

For tips on eating and working out, see Is it better to eat before or after exercise?

When attempting to determine which time of day is best for your workout, consider the following

• Working out at night may disrupt sleep for some person. If you have noticed a change in the sleep habits, try to shift your workout earlier in the evening. If possible, avoid any “workout drink” that could be caffeinated or full of sugar.

• Though research is mixed and ever-evolving, some evidence shows that people who workout in the morning are better able to stick to their routine. However, when another time of day works well for you, keep it up and do what feels best.

• If you are exercising at night, whether in a park or other public space, or commuting between home and a fitness facility, pay extra 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 individuals.

When your nighttime exercise routine is fairly new to you, it may 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.

When 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 might want to consider how to balance your meals and snacks.

In conclusion, 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 additional energy while you train.