No matter when you choose to exercise, physical activity has clear physical and mental health benefits.
Working out is good for your cardiovascular system, cognitive functioning, mood, musculoskeletal system and so much more. You’ll reap the benefits as long as you exercise consistently.
That said, a new study suggests exercise can be even better for you when done in the morning. The research is set to be presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session later this month and has not yet been peer-reviewed.
Researchers examined a year’s worth of health information from roughly 14,500 people, including heart rate data collected by their Fitbits, to reach their conclusion. Study participants who exercised in the morning had lower rates of cardiometabolic disease risk factors, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, when compared to people who worked out at later points during the day. Morning exercisers also had a 31% lower risk of coronary artery disease.
The biggest benefit was seen among those who exercised between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. People in this group had the lowest risk of coronary artery disease. These findings were true even when someone worked out just as much, but at a later time of day.
