The Love Central - Circadian Rhythm and Exercise The Love Central - Circadian Rhythm and Exercise

The Best Time of Day to Work Out: The Science of Circadian Rhythm and Exercise

Your circadian rhythm affects different aspects of your health, including your energy levels, mood, and metabolism. 
Circadian Rhythm and Exercise
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  • The circadian rhythm is your body’s natural sleep-wake, or the body’s internal clock

  • In this article, we’ll explore the perfect timing for your workouts

The circadian rhythm is regulated by a part of your brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). It uses signals from light and darkness to tell your body when it’s time to sleep and when it’s time to wake up.

Why it is important to align your workouts with your circadian rhythm

Your circadian rhythm affects different aspects of your health, including your energy levels, mood, and metabolism. 

When you align your workouts with your circadian rhythm, you can take advantage of your body’s natural rhythms to improve your performance and results.

The benefits of working out at different times of the day

I. Morning workouts

Morning workouts have a magical way of kickstarting your day with a burst of energy and setting a positive tone for hours to come. 

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When the sun is rising and the world is just waking up, your body is primed for action. Exercising in the morning releases endorphins that boost your mood and energy levels. 

For people who often struggle to find time for fitness, morning workouts are advised as you get your exercise done and dusted early, leaving you with no excuses to skip it later in the day. 

Best types of workouts for the morning

Some of the best types of workouts for the morning include moderate-intensity cardio exercises like running, swimming, or biking. These exercises help get your heart rate up, increase your energy levels, and enhance your mood. 

Additionally, making strength training exercises part of your morning routine can help build lean muscle and boost your metabolism, setting a positive tone for the day. 

To add a touch of flexibility and mindfulness to your mornings, consider yoga or Pilates, which can enhance your body’s mobility and provide a peaceful start to the day.

II. Afternoon workouts

Afternoon is that time when you feel like a nap is a better idea than anything else. But what if you could use it for workouts instead? 

Afternoon workouts can be a game-changer for your productivity, focus, and overall physical performance. As the day unfolds, your body temperature rises naturally and your muscles become more flexible, making it a good time for workouts. 

In addition, exercising during your lunch break or a break from work can break up the day and give you renewed energy to tackle your tasks.

Best types of workouts for the afternoon

In the afternoon, consider engaging in strength-training exercises. These workouts help you build muscle and improve your overall physical performance. 

Additionally, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) like squatting, push-ups, etc is an excellent choice for the afternoon. It provides a quick and effective way to boost your metabolism and increase your energy levels. 

For those with specific sports or athletic goals, sport-specific training exercises can be a fantastic option to fine-tune your skills and improve your performance in your chosen field.

III. Evening workouts

Evening workouts offer unique benefits, like stress relief and muscle growth. After a hectic day, exercise can serve as a way to unwind and release tension.

Your body is already warm from the day’s activity, making it easier to get into the exercise mood. The focus of a night workout isn’t just on productivity but on relaxation and self-care.

Additionally, evening workouts are perfect for those who are night owls or simply find it difficult to exercise earlier in the day. They provide a sense of accomplishment that can lead to a restful night’s sleep.

Best types of workouts for the evening

Consider incorporating moderate-intensity cardio exercises like walking, yoga, or Pilates into your evening routine. They provide a gentle yet effective way to release stress, ease into relaxation, and wind down after a long day.

Flexibility exercises, such as stretching or yoga, can improve your body’s ability to move more easily and comfortably. 

Furthermore, engaging in core exercises during the evening can help strengthen your core muscles, which is beneficial for posture and stability. 

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Discovering the best time of day that works for you<br>Image credit freepik

Tips for finding the best time of day to work out for you

Discovering the best time of day for your workout involves a bit of experimentation and consideration. 

Begin by experimenting with different times to determine what aligns best with your body’s rhythm. Try morning, midday, or evening workouts to see which one leaves you feeling most energized and motivated. 

It is also essential to take your daily schedule and commitments into account. 

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