When is the optimal time to work out for cardiovascular health?
Written by Susan Parker | Updated on June 22, 2025
Reviewed by Susan Parker
11 sources cited
Overview
Studies have consistently demonstrated that regular physical activity can lower the likelihood of cardiovascular ailments and strokes. Recent research suggests that exercising at specific times of the day may offer enhanced benefits for heart health.
Conducted by Gali Albalak and her team at the Leiden University Medical Centre in the Netherlands, the study examined data from 86,657 individuals participating in the UK Biobank. These participants, ranging from 42 to 78 years old, utilized activity trackers to record their exercise habits over a week, followed by heart monitoring for an average of six years. Throughout the study period, about 2,900 participants developed heart disease, and approximately 800 suffered from a stroke.
Revealed: The Best Time for Exercise...
The study indicated that women who primarily exercised in the late morning (between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.) had the lowest risk of heart attack or stroke.
Reduced Stroke Risk by Up to 35%...
Compared to women who worked out later in the day, those who were most active in the early or late morning had a 22% to 24% decreased risk of heart disease. Furthermore, women who predominantly exercised in the late morning experienced a substantial 35% decline in stroke risk.
In contrast, there were no added cardiovascular advantages for men who engaged in morning exercise.
Significance of Timing
According to Dr. Albalak, physical activity, akin to food consumption, is intertwined with our circadian rhythms. The timing of exercise could influence our biological clocks and have varying implications for health.
While Dr. Albalak stresses that physical activity at any time of the day is beneficial, she speculates that morning exercise might be more conducive to aligning our internal clocks correctly.
Common public health recommendations typically emphasize exercise frequency, duration, and intensity while overlooking the importance of timing. This recent study proposes that timing should be regarded as a crucial element.
Personal Insight
Although morning physical activity was found to be advantageous for heart health, any kind of exercise at any time is superior to none. Whether it's a morning stroll or an evening workout, the key is to stay active and uphold a consistent exercise regimen.
