Interestingly, being sleep-deprived seems to affect physical performance in the afternoon more than in the morning. So if you’re staying up late and not getting much sleep, you may actually find it easier to exercise the next morning than the next afternoon.
So, does timing matter?
Whatever time of day, if you can feel yourself working you will make progress – for example, increasing muscle strength and improving aerobic fitness and heart health.
So if you’re exercising to get bigger, stronger and fitter, the timing doesn’t actually matter.
Besides, when we exercise often comes down to motivation and convenience. If you like to exercise earlier in the day and that suits you best, there’s no reason to change.
But you can adapt if you need.
If you have a sporting event coming up in the morning – and you usually train in the afternoon – you might want to prepare by doing some early exercise so you’re at your peak.
There is evidence to suggest that repeatedly training in the morning can close the gap between your afternoon and morning performance.
Basically, your body can get used to exercising at a particular time, although it will likely take a few weeks to adapt.
Finally, if you find exercising close to bedtime makes you feel too alert and is disrupting your sleep, you may want to try doing something more gentle at night and/or exercising earlier in the day.
This article was originally published at The Conversation with permission to re-publish at the Mamamia website.
Feature image: Unsplash/Filip Mroz.
Mamamia wants to hear about your education and learning habits! Complete our 3 minute survey for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw!