There is an ongoing battle as to WHAT time is the BEST time to exercise.
As if we regularly have a choice, though!
For weight-loss or fat loss purposes, the science supports morning workouts- preferably in a fasted state. (Yes, I do intermittent fasting & have since I was young)
However for better performance and strength (which in turn leads to an increased caloric burn), it is the p.m. hours. And the research is supporting THAT. In fact recent studies showed that there was no difference between ingesting caffeine or not- afternoon or evening workouts faired better (intensity-wise) than in the morning.
But what happens after a busy day? You’re tired. (Hence the reason why they studied with caffeine ingestion.)
And then another ongoing battle, or philosophy more like it, is the notion that if you workout at night, it will impact your sleep- negatively.
Nope!
New research out of Australia tested adults with high-intensity exercise and it not only did not affect their sleeping, but it also reduced their appetite. (source: ScienceDaily 2/21/2019)
I have reported on this blog and elsewhere that exercise in the evening can actually help you sleep BETTER and reduce the signs of depression.
Let me tell you why else this is important: Because I also read this week that lack of sleep can contribute to cognitive decline (i.e., Alzheimer’s Disease). The links between sleep (or lack thereof) and health, and depression and health, are being more firmly imprinted.
And women, we are 2/3rds more likely at risk of cognitive decline- as well as depression, higher BMI, higher cholesterol…!
Not to mention lack of sleep and exercise contributing to cardiovascular (heart) disease, which is the number one killer of women over all cancers combined.
Ultimately, the best time to exercise is WHATEVER time you are able to!
Be consistent!
Even a small amount still counts.
Reach out to me if you need assistance with any aspect of your health quest
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Any Questions??
