Exercise during this 3-hour window reduces the risk of heart disease

Most people know that exercise – especially a combination of cardio training and strength – is good for your heart.

But a large study that follows over 85,000 adults suggests that it’s not just what you do in the gym – it’s when you do it – it matters.

The study, published in the European Gazette of Preventive Cardiology, found that people who worked either sooner or later in the morning had a 11% and 16% The lower risk, namely, heart disease and stroke than those who did not notice sneakers until the afternoon.

Specifically, the researchers identified 8 to 11am as the ideal sweet place for exercise – at least when it comes to heart health.

Women in particular saw the strongest benefit, as those that hit the gym late in the morning had a 35% lower risk of stroke and 24% lower risk of coronary artery disease compared to their afternoon counterparts.

“Astagble prove that exercise is good for heart health, and our study now shows that morning activity seems to be more useful,” said lead author Gali Albalak, a doctoral candidate at the Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands.

“The findings were particularly pointed out in women, and were applied to both early birds and nightlife. This was an observation study and therefore we cannot explain why associations were most marked in women.”

Previous research has shown that while the Night Owls may be smarter than early birds, they are also at greater risk of depression and anxiety as well as diabetes.

These findings suggest that synchronizing your workouts with your body’s inner watch – a concept known as chronoactivity – can give your heart an extra incentive, regardless of your chronotype.

But before the bootcampers dawn enjoy – it’s worth noting that science is controversial about it.

A 2023 study found that afternoon exercise – specifically between 11 and 5 in the morning – reduced the risk of heart disease more than in the morning or in the evening, especially for men and the elderly.

And a 2024 study suggests that working at night can help you live longer.

However, experts agree that every exercise is better than no exercise – and consistency is essential.

“Overall, the best time to exercise is when you feel more energized and you can maintain consistency,” Chris Pruitt, CEO of Worothealthy.com told Chris Pruitt.

“For many, late in the afternoon or early evening is ideal due to higher body temperature and improved muscle function. However, morning exercises can increase metabolism and mood for the next day.”