Banzai

Slowly change your bedtime

Working out in the morning is counterproductive if you're not getting enough sleep. Numerous studies have linked a lack of sleep to everything from weight gain to an increased diabetes risk, not to mention low energy and fatigue. Trying to wake up early if you aren't fully rested is even more difficult.

First, decide what time you'll need to start waking up to make your workout happen, and then calculate what your new ideal bedtime should be (most experts recommend 7-8 hours of sleep each night for best health and weight-loss results). If you usually hit the sack at midnight, don't expect to start falling asleep at 9 pm. right away. Start going to bed 15 minutes earlier each night until you gradually reach your ideal bedtime (and remember, the hours you spend in bed are not the same as hours spent sleeping, so be sure to allow yourself some time to unwind and fall asleep too).

Photo by Getty Images Apr 30, 2012