Which time of day is preferable for exercising to achieve the best results—the morning or the evening?

 A recent study from the University of Sydney looked into the best time to exercise for optimal health benefits.

• The study focused on 30,000 obese individuals aged 62-88 over eight years.
• It aimed to answer whether exercising in the morning or evening made a difference to health outcomes.

Which time of day is preferable for exercising?

Findings of the Study

Evening Exercise Surprises

• Exercising after 6pm showed surprising health benefits compared to morning workouts.
• Individuals exercising in the evening had a 61% lower risk of dying and a 36% lower risk of heart disease compared to non-exercisers.
• Morning exercisers, on the other hand, had a 33% lower risk of dying and a 17% lower risk of heart disease.

Statement from Professor Stamatakis

• Professor Emmaneul Stamatakis, the study author, emphasized the significance of exercise timing for obesity and type 2 diabetes management.
• He noted the importance of integrating exercise timing into preventive healthcare recommendations.

Understanding the Study

Activity Patterns

• The study analyzed participants' weekly activity using 24-hour fitness trackers.
• It found that activity levels varied greatly among individuals, influenced by age, sex, smoking, and diet, not just exercise.

Categories of Exercise Timing

• Participants were categorized into four groups based on when they exercised: morning, afternoon, and evening.
• Morning exercisers worked from 6am to noon, afternoon athletes from noon to 6pm, and evening participants from 6pm to midnight.

Implications and Expert Opinion

Health Risks of Obesity

• Dr. Angelo Sabag, a lecturer in Exercise Physiology at the University of Sydney, highlighted the high prevalence of overweight and obesity in Australia.
• He stressed the importance of managing obesity to reduce the risk of cardiovascular conditions like heart attacks and stroke.

Exercise as Part of the Solution

• While exercise isn't the sole solution to obesity, Dr. Sabag suggested that planning physical activity at certain times of the day might help mitigate health risks associated with obesity.

Conclusion

• The study underscores the importance of considering exercise timing for overall health, particularly in managing obesity-related health risks.
• Integrating exercise into daily routines, especially in the evening, could offer significant health benefits, complementing other preventive measures against obesity and related conditions.

[Sources: University of Sydney Study, Statements from Professor Stamatakis and Dr. Sabag]