TIME IT RIGHT

High-performance sports psychologist Chris Shamrock explains how to approach chronobiology from your mind’s POV

1. KNOW YOURSELF

“Work out whether you’re generally a lark or an owl,” says Shamrock, “as that will help you know when your natural energy levels are likely to be supportive of exercise.”

2. BE CURIOUS

“Having worked out whether you’re a lark or an owl, plan your exercise at any time of the day in the knowledge that you can, A: make the exercise feel easier by scheduling for when you know you’ve naturally got more energy; and B: know that you’re going to be finding out what other things help you to have a good session without that natural lift from your body clock.”

3. GROW AS AN ATHLETE

“With this approach, you can focus on finding out how good you can become at having great sessions that are supported by your body clock. Equally, when you’ve done a great job at the time of day that isn’t your ideal, it can be hugely rewarding.”