Q. Is working out on an empty stomach in the morning really helpful for weight loss? What is the best way to do it?

I once had an experience where I pushed myself too hard during a fasted workout out of pure ambition, only to feel dizzy for the rest of the day. I definitely learned the hard way! (laughs) From the perspective of Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), fasted exercise affects everyone differently. While it is beneficial for those with sufficient energy, individuals with 'Bi-heo' (脾虛, Spleen Deficiency—a state where the spleen's function is weak, leading to poor digestion and absorption) may experience a rapid drop in energy, which can actually lower the overall metabolic rate. I recommend the following step-by-step routine: 1. [Immediately after waking up ~ 30 mins]: Drink a glass of lukewarm water to clear 'Dam-eum' (痰飮, the accumulation of stagnant metabolic waste). This helps improve blood circulation and wakes up the body. 2. [Starting the workout]: I recommend light stretching or 20–30 minutes of brisk walking. This helps resolve 'Eo-hyeol' (瘀血, stagnant or blood stasis), initiating proper circulation throughout the body. 3. [Post-workout ~ Before the first meal]: Consume a light, protein-focused meal to prevent muscle loss. If you fast for too long, the body perceives it as an 'emergency state' and may store energy more aggressively during your next meal. Ultimately, the most important factor is 'sustainability.' If you feel so fatigued after your workout that your productivity drops during the day, that method is not right for your constitution. The wisest approach is to listen to your body's signals and adjust accordingly.