New research reveals that workouts at a specific time may offer unique cardiovascular benefits - especially for older adults.
A consistent daily exercise schedule also seems to boost overall fitness.
Morning workouts support heart and lung health
The new study found that people who exercised most in the morning had better cardiovascular fitness and lung function.
Older adults especially showed improved walking efficiency and endurance.
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A consistent exercise schedule pays off
Participants who worked out around the same time each day saw better health outcomes overall. The data suggests that regularity itself plays a big role in fitness.
Your body clock matters more than you think
Our internal circadian rhythm influences everything from body temperature to hormone release.
That means the time of day you move could actually impact how your body responds to exercise.
Morning activity improves walking efficiency
Those with peak activity in the morning didn't just walk more - they walked more efficiently.
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Their bodies used energy better during movement, which suggests stronger metabolic function.
The study focused on older adults
Researchers examined health data from 799 individuals with an average age of 76.
The results are especially relevant for older people who want to maintain good physical condition.
Fitness trackers told the story
Participants wore wrist devices that monitored activity levels around the clock for seven days.
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Their heart and lung function was then tested with cardiopulmonary exercise evaluations.
Exercise can work like medicine
Experts say morning workouts may act as a natural boost for body systems - enhancing muscle performance, metabolism, and even cellular health through improved circadian rhythm alignment.
Morning workouts linked to lower heart disease risk
A separate 2023 study found that people who were most active between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. had the lowest risk of heart disease and stroke - especially women.
But afternoon and evening workouts have their perks too
Later workouts aren’t bad either. They’ve been linked to lower insulin resistance and even reduced all-cause mortality.
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For some, performance might be higher later in the day.
The best time to work out is...
While morning workouts show great promise, experts agree that the most important thing is consistency.
Regular exercise - regardless of time - offers massive benefits to overall health.
Short workouts still count
Even just 20 minutes of exercise per week can lead to notable improvements in heart and lung health. It doesn’t have to be long to make a difference.
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This article is based on information from Health.com.