The topic has long been up for debate – but what time is actually best to work out for maximum health benefits?
It’s vital to maintain an exercise regime as part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle. And the NHS explains that for optimal health, adults should aim to do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.
But does the time of day we work out affect the positive impact it can have on our bodies? And if it does, when should we be doing the majority of our exercise?
It has long been up for debate whether working out in the morning, midday, or at night will lead to better results. And experts have weighed in with their views on when you should be pounding the pavement or pumping iron.
When is the best time to exercise?
Benefits of morning exercise
Exercising in the morning boasts a range of benefits – if you can manage to drag yourself out of bed, that is. Mayo Clinic says: “For morning exercisers, the allure of starting the day with a workout is undeniable.
“Completing your workout before you begin your day can provide a sense of accomplishment. Add to that the post-workout release of endorphins, and your morning workout can serve as a powerful ego boost to set a positive tone for the rest of the day.
“Morning workouts also eliminate the worry about finding time for exercise later in the day since it’s often the only time of day that hasn’t been committed yet to work, social events or family activities.
“This sense of freedom and flexibility can alleviate stress and help establish a consistent daily routine.”
As long as your body is properly fuelled by a balanced breakfast, a morning workout can not only positively impact your body, but boost your mood for the day ahead.
Benefits of midday exercise
According to a study published in Nature Communications in 2023, working out in the afternoon reduces the risk of heart disease or early death more than physical activity in either the morning or afternoon.
But while a lunchtime gym session may boost your health more than working out in the morning or evening, it can be difficult to find time during the day to exercise.
Those who work full-time may find it especially difficult to exercise smack bang in the middle of the working day, so this option may be less realistic for some.
Benefits of evening exercise
British GQ reports that evening exercise has a range of benefits, including stress relief, improved sleep, and potentially enhanced physical performance due to increased body temperature and flexibility.
It can also be a good way to unwind after a busy day, and those who work full-time will often find it easier to make time for exercise after clocking off.
But while exercising at each time of day boasts different benefits to our bodies and our mental health, what’s most important is to make sure you’re able to fit regular workouts somewhere into your daily routine – whether morning, noon or night- in order to meet the NHS’s recommended amount of weekly exercise.
So, in short, the best time for you to exercise is whenever you can.
