Researchers have found that exercising in the morning may be associated with better heart health. The study, conducted by Prem Patel, a medical student at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, analyzed data from over 14,000 individuals. Compared to those who exercised later in the day, morning exercisers had lower risks of coronary disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Interestingly, exercising between 7:00 and 8:00 in the morning appeared to be particularly effective.
The researchers note that their study shows an association, not a cause-and-effect relationship. Biological, behavioral, and psychological factors could explain why morning exercise seems more beneficial. Hormones, sleep, genetics, energy levels, and healthy food choices throughout the day are all factors that researchers suggest may play a role in the observed results.
