You go to the gym in order to burn a few calories. But on some days, you just don’t have the time or (let’s face it) the energy to give your workout your all.

 

The solution? Find out when — and how — you can achieve the biggest calorie burn from your workout.

Exercising on a Full vs. Empty Stomach

Winner: When You Exercise on a Full Stomach

Food is the fuel you need for a great workout, and hitting the gym after eating is an ideal time. With partially digested food in your system, your muscles are stocked with the glycogen they need to do their best work.

Working Out by Yourself vs. With Others

Winner: When You Work Out with Others

Okay, so tagging your friends along won’t directly up your calorie burn, but it will help you go harder and longer without even knowing it.

Doing the Same Workout Every Day vs. Switching It Up

Winner: Switching Up Your Workouts

Altering the exercises, angles, or even just the number of sets and reps can keep your body guessing and burning more calories during every workout.

Exercising Indoors vs. Outdoors

Winner: Outdoors

Trade your treadmill for the road. Working out outside can help you burn more calories (some people estimate up to 10 percent more) even if you stick to your indoor pace.

So, try these tips out and see if they work for you!

 

Have you found any other ways to optimize your workout? Let us know in the comments section below!

 

Blurb- You can’t give it your all everyday, right? Here are some simple tips that can make even a small workout pay off.