Clocking the ideal time for exercise
Some people swear by their earlymorning workouts, others much prefer to exercise in the evenings.
Of course, it all depends on what suits you best, but what do the scientists think?
There are many theories on the optimum time to work out, but we’ve had a broad look at when certain types of exercise might be performed for the best results.
Andy Lane, the professor of sport science at the University of Wolverhampton says: “It seems some people can adapt their performance to be good in the morning or late in the evening.”
In short, no two bodies are the same, so there are no hard and fast rules on the timing of your daily exercise routine, but here are some ideas for when you’re out and about. has an optimum time for peak performance just as night time signals sleep,” explains Lane.
For weights, it would seem the optimum time is early evening.
For men in particular, testosterone and cortisone levels are found to be strongest in the early evening, meaning their muscle strength is at its strongest.
One study found that those who lifted weights in the evening increased their muscle mass more than those who trained in the morning.
However, the difference was not significant and Lane notes that research into this subject has yielded mixed results.
This is a less scientific point but definitely valid: If you’ve had a stressful day and then lift weights, chances are, you’re going to feel better. groups, so there is little difference as regards when it is best to perform any one of them.
But again, much like running, if weight loss is your aim, you might be swayed towards a morning session. is specifically geared towards greeting the beginning of the day.
Practising yoga as soon as you rise helps you dedicate yourself to yoga with a clear mind, before the day’s stresses get in the way.
Yoga teacher Emma Lever advocates a morning session. “Yoga is best practised first thing in the morning,” she says.
“Connecting with the body through the breath helps us find an inner stillness and clarity, keeping us grounded and centred as we go about our busy lives.”