Exercising in the morning vs exercising in the evening: Which is more effective?

Exercising is undoubtedly one of the most effective ways to keep the body healthy. From keeping the body in shape to releasing mental stress, it provides overall health benefits. Some individuals prefer a morning work-out while some choose an evening drill. Both are effective, but which one gives the best results?

If you’re someone who’s planning to live a fulfilling life, then staying active can help you seize the dream. Exercising has proven to lower the risk of life threatening diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledges how regular exercising contributes to the prevention of non-communicable diseases such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. It also helps reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Exercising in the morning vs exercising in the evening. Credits: Canva

How to choose exercise timingsIndividuals choose exercise timings based on their schedules. Early birds would prefer a morning warm-up followed by a jog, while in the evening, gyms and parks are filled by people brushing-off stress. Listing the goals can help choose the best timings. These goals can range from weight management, increased muscle strength, improved endurance to healthy ageing.“Consistency is the key”, advises Dr. Ruchit Shah, Interventional Cardiologist at Saifee Hospital, Mumbai. Dr Ruchit says, people should choose a time and stick to it. He further adds, ‘consistency is more important than whether it is morning or evening and ultimately proper hydration, nutrition, and good sleep matter more than the time you choose to exercise’.The best timing to achieve your desired health goalExercising at sunrise or during the sunset will offer you different results. Not to mention, consistency is the key. It is important to understand that the goals you want to achieve and the timing of your exercise goes hand-in-hand.

Exercising in the morning vs exercising in the evening. Credits: Canva

Weight ManagementOne of the most sought after exercising goals is weight loss or fat burning. This can be achieved by focused cardio training. Harvard study highlights although the best time to exercise is still debated, however studies suggest early morning is ideal when it comes to weight management. Muscle StrengthTo increase Muscle Strength, the best timing of exercise is evening. This is because the body temperature in the evening is higher, thus, stiffness in the muscles is less. This benefits physical performance. It is important to note if evening training is done before bedtime, it can affect the sleep quality.

Exercising in the morning vs exercising in the evening. Credits: Canva

Mental health Exercising is the best medicine to improve mental health. If you’re a morning person and expecting to give the day a positive start then brisk walking, jogging or cycling can help you release the happy hormones. These hormones can reduce the feelings of anxiety and stress. Evening exercise for improved mental health has benefits different from morning exercise. After a busy day, evening exercise can help reduce the built-up stress. Healthy aging and longevity A study conducted by UK National Health Institutes concluded how physical activity has anti aging effects. For longevity and healthy aging, morning exercise can improve heart and metabolic health while evening exercise boosts vascular health.