HOW LATE IS TOO LATE TO FIT IN A WORKOUT?

It’s 8pm and I haven’t managed to squeeze in a session yet. Should I just sack it off?

It’s never too late! A recent study by Concordia University found that the ideal time for a HIIT workout is two hours before bed. Smash out a few sets before lights out and you could actually improve your sleep.

So, if I usually turn in at 10.30pm, a quick session now could actually be a good thing?

Exactly. Another study by the Australian Catholic University found evening workouts not only improve metabolic health but might also reduce blood glucose and cholesterol levels, too.

I’m not sure I have the energy for a full 45 minutes, though.

No problem. Even 10 minutes of HIIT can help. A good weekly goal is 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity and two strength sessions. Hit that target and it doesn’t matter how you divide it up.

Gotcha. What about refuelling post-workout?

In future, aim for a carb-rich dinner at 6ish, then neck a protein shake post-sesh. Your body will repair itself while you sleep. It’s good like that.