While there is no tried and true set answer to that question, I think the best time to train is when you can do it on a regular and consistent basis. That said, that best time is that period your body normally performs at it’s optimum and that is different for each of us. Whatever period of time that is, it is probably best to stick with that time slot consistently to accommodate the natural rhythms of the body. For me, during the week, I am used to 4:30-7:00 PM but last year I got used to 6:00 AM, although I did get injured more often during that time. On the weekends, I prefer 8-11:00 AM.

These last couple of weeks, I have been getting my training in but much later than what is optimum for me. The upshot of that is my enthusiasm, motivation and energy is diffused. Mentally, I am not as focused either. I run the risk of injury on the sessions I lift heavy. I have to reset myself and get to the gym earlier and enjoy the more focused and quicker workouts. When I do train within my time range, the workouts are done at a quicker pace and I am out of the “box” much sooner than when I go later in the evening, like tonight.

This evening, going in later, I did 7 x 3 back squats and sure enough, I wasn’t very sharp. The other night was the same thing: late and lifting heavy deads. While I did get a PR, I had poor form and did risk injury, especially on the latter sets.

I did switch from the higher Olympic style squat to lower on the back the way powerlifters do it, per Mark Rippetoe.

Back Squats

7 x 3 at 135/185/225/225/245/225/225. 60-78% of 1RM.

 

Related posts:

1. My Hardest WOD ...
2. Back to Front SquatsAs I allow my back to heal and catch up on lost sleep, my workouts consist of finding out the best things I can do safely during this rehab. The advantage I have with this injury is that I have had this one before and so I know what to...
3. Change-up ...
4. Like a Kid in the Candy StoreOver the last couple of years, as I switched over from mostly endurance-style training with inline skating to the many varied Crossfit workouts, I have enjoyed trying a lot of different ways to train instead of locking myself into just skating, mountain biking or running as I had done in...
5. Are Resistance Machines Safer Than Free Weights?Whatever you use in the gym, free weights, machines or both, know the inherent risks and stay focused on the exercise, not on the hard body training next to you. Stay aware, be in the moment and stay healthy....
6. Back Squats 5×5 ...
7. Angie ...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.