Exercising regularly is one of the best things you can do for your heart health. But knowing when to work out for maximum benefit can be confusing, especially with so many opinions and myths circulating about the best time to exercise.
So, when should you work out for heart health? Let’s find out.
Morning Workout
Many people believe that the best time to exercise is in the morning, as it jumpstarts the metabolism and helps you burn more calories throughout the day.
Additionally, morning workouts may help reduce blood pressure and improve insulin sensitivity, both of which benefit heart health. However, for some people, working out in the morning can cause unhappy adrenaline and cortisol spikes as the body abruptly shifts into activity mode.
Afternoon Workout
Afternoon workouts are another option, and may be convenient for those with busy mornings.
Studies suggest that afternoon workouts can improve performance and endurance as the body is more warmed up, as well as being at a lower risk of injury due to the naturally higher muscle and joint flexibility in the afternoon. However, it is still important to ensure that you have enough energy and time to fully engage in the workout.
Evening Workout
Finally, the evening workout is another option for heart health, with some studies indicating that it can help reduce night-time blood pressure and improve sleep quality, both of which are beneficial for the heart.
However, for some people, exercising later in the day can interfere with sleep because of increased cortisone levels, and hence sometime can lead to bad effects for heart’s restorative functions.
The Bottom Line
In summary, the best time to work out for heart health varies from person to person, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your schedule, energy levels, and individual preferences.
The most important thing is to make sure you are exercising regularly, regardless of when it is. If you are looking for maximum heart health benefits, then it’s about making sure the hard work you do in the gym is enjoyed by the whole body the rest of the day.
Other Considerations
Despite the evidence suggesting that regular exercise is beneficial for heart health, it is important to consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise program, especially if you have a history of heart disease.
Additionally, it’s important to listen to your body and adjust your workout timings accordingly in case you can’t meet your exercise goals without any strain, headache or distortion of rhythm.
Key Takeaways
Here are the key takeaways to remember when deciding when to work out for heart health:.