The Oatmeal Experiment

I know it isn’t really hot here compared to what the rest of the country is suffering but I overheat easily so I have been trying to exercise early in the morning instead of my usual lunch-time. Really, I have tried to become a morning exerciser for years because it just seems like such a good idea to get it over with before the day starts. I also love the self-righteous feeling I get from it. Unfortunately, I don’t waken bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, I am more the bleary, uncoordinated, non-morning, type of person.

So, After Thursday’s near crash, I decided to try Friday’s walk in a well-fed state. I made a standard portion of oatmeal, (1/2 cup oatmeal, 1 cup water, pinch of salt) and ate it with a cup of coffee before I left. My stats are below. The biggest differences are in the perception of exertion, and probably blood-sugar levels. Thursday I was happy to get home before I fainted and Friday I stopped only because I had stuff to do. Also note that Thursday’s walk was nearly flat where Friday’s was hilly. Even so, I am amazed at how much slower my average pace is in the morning than when I walk later in the day, My average rate at noon is generally 5.2 mph.

I’d love to hear what other people do. Do you exercise in the morning, do you eat first, or not until after?