When is the best time of day to run?

Morning, afternoon or evening?
Written by Marcus Smith
Stephanie Humphrey
Stephanie Humphrey
May 28, 2024
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5
Mainline Class
Specialty Class
Endurance
Ladies Run Club
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Mainline Class
Specialty Class
Endurance
Ladies Run Club
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
Mainline Class
Specialty Class
Endurance
Ladies Run Club
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
Mainline Class
Specialty Class
Endurance
Ladies Run Club
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
When is the best time of day to run?

Seize the day, get up at the crack of dawn, see the sunrise and then continue your day feeling fulfilled and grateful. If only it were that simple.

The reality of running

In reality there’s always something to mess up your plans. A baby or infant was awake in the night, you had a late work shift, an unexpected dinner plan that went a little late, or a restless mind that kept you up.

Two female runners at night in Dubai
Sometimes the best time of day to run is whenever you can fit it in!

The reasons are often pretty legitimate as to why you may or may not be able to hit morning sessions. For some, running in the morning is perfect, yet for others it’s a recipe for disaster. We are all unique; therefore, our approach to training should be unique too!

Choosing the best time of day to run

#1 – The Weather

If you are living out here in the desert, then there are certainly times of the year that we need to avoid running in peak sun/heat. Or the flip side, in other parts of the world, it might require you to wait until the freezing temperatures have thawed out.

#2 – Your Non-Running Schedule

If you know there are other commitments in your day such as office hours or school drop-offs, plot these in first, and then slot your running times around them accordingly. Once you hash out this holistic approach it will set you up to win on a consistent basis.

#3 Your Personal Preference

We are more likely to continue doing something if there are less pain points. It is not right or wrong to be a morning person or a night owl – however it’s important to know the time of day that you prefer running.

Ultimately the best time to run is the time that brings you the most enjoyment and satisfaction, which in turn will help you stack consistency.

Closing thoughts

There are pros and cons to running in the morning, the afternoon and the evening – especially in Dubai. It depends on so many personal factors that, ultimately, there is no ‘one’ best time of day to run – you have to find what works best for you!

Related: Unlock your running potential

Our Ladies Run Club sessions offer both morning and evening slots. Head over to @if_ladiesrunclub for more information.

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