Study suggests afternoon workouts may reduce risk of heart attack and cancer

According to a recent study, working out in the afternoon may be the best time to reduce the risk of heart attack and cancer. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Copenhagen, found that exercising in the afternoon was more effective at lowering blood pressure and improving sleep than exercising in the morning or evening.

The study followed 375 adults who were assigned to workout either in the morning (between 7-10am), afternoon (between 1-4pm), or evening (between 7-10pm) for 12 weeks. Results showed that those who exercised in the afternoon had lower blood pressure and better sleep quality than those who exercised in the morning or evening.

The researchers suggest that the body’s circadian rhythms, or internal clock, may play a role in the effectiveness of exercise at different times of day. The body’s cortisol levels, which are associated with stress, are typically highest in the morning and lowest in the afternoon and evening. Therefore, exercising in the afternoon, when cortisol levels are lower, may lead to better outcomes.

While the study does not definitively prove that afternoon workouts are better for overall health, it does suggest that there may be benefits to working out at different times of day. The researchers note that the best time to exercise may vary depending on individual factors such as work schedules and personal preferences.

Re-reported from the story originally published in The Indian Express