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For years the fitness world has been divided on the age-old question: which is better morning gym or evening exercise ? While both offer undeniable health benefits, a new study from the University of Sydney might surprise you.
Their research suggests that evening workouts could be the secret weapon in the fight against obesity and heart disease.
The Power of the Afternoon and Evening Sweat Session
The study, which tracked nearly 30,000 obese participants over eight years, revealed a fascinating trend. Those who exercised between 6pm and midnight had a significantly lower risk of heart disease and death compared to their morning gym-goers. In fact, evening exercisers enjoyed a remarkable 61% lower risk of death and a 36% lower risk of heart disease compared to completely inactive participants.
While morning exercisers also saw benefits, they were less pronounced – a 33% lower risk of death and a 17% lower risk of heart disease.
Why the Evening Wins
The researchers propose a few interesting theories to explain this evening exercise advantage:
Blood Sugar Advantage: Our blood sugar levels tend to be higher in the afternoon and evening. Working out during this time allows your muscles to tap into this excess sugar for fuel, potentially leading to increased calorie burning and better weight management.
Nighttime Blood Pressure Boost: Exercising in the evening might contribute to lower blood pressure throughout the night, further reducing the risk of heart disease.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Previous research suggests afternoon and evening workouts might stabilize blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, both crucial factors in preventing diabetes.
Stress Relief and Emotional Eating: Evening workouts could have a stress-relieving effect, potentially reducing the urge for emotional eating, a common pitfall for many.
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| Anupam Mahapatra@Unsplash |
Beyond the Morning vs. Evening Debate
It's important to remember that this study doesn't necessarily mean morning workouts are useless. They still offer numerous benefits. However, it highlights the potential advantages of strategically timing your exercise.
Finding Your Exercise Sweet Spot
The key takeaway; Listen to your body and find a workout schedule that works for you. Whether you're a morning person or a night owl, there's a time for exercise that will maximize your health benefits.
Here are some tips to consider:
Experiment with different times: Try working out in the morning, afternoon, and evening to see what feels best for you and your energy levels.
Focus on consistency: The most important factor is to find a time that you can stick with and make exercise a regular habit.
Consider your goals: If weight management is your primary focus, the new research suggests evening workouts might be particularly beneficial. However, if stress relief is a priority, any time of day could work.
Remember, every bit of movement counts. So, lace up your shoes, find your exercise sweet spot, and reap the numerous health benefits that come with an active lifestyle.
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