Study Shows Exercising in the Morning May Aid in Weight Loss
A recent study published in the research journal Obesity has caught the attention of many fitness enthusiasts. The study suggests that exercising in the morning could potentially lead to more effective weight loss compared to other times of the day.
Dr. Jake Veigel, the medical director of Intermountain Health’s Live Well Center at the Salt Lake Clinic, sheds light on the findings. “They say that exercising in the early morning might help improve weight loss versus other times,” Dr. Veigel explains. “They say the word might in there. So, they’re not lying, because it might.”
The study focused on body mass index (BMI), a measurement that utilizes weight and height to determine if an individual’s weight is within the healthy range. Dr. Veigel highlights that individuals who exercised in the morning tended to have lower BMIs. “The theory is exercise in the morning helps us burn calories quicker,” he says.
One possible explanation for this phenomenon is that exercising in a fasted state can enhance the body’s ability to burn fat. “It could be that if you’re exercising when you’ve fasted, before you’ve had anything to eat, that your body’s revved up to burn fat,” Dr. Veigel explains. Additionally, exercising in the morning may also optimize the circadian rhythm, benefiting sleep patterns.
However, if morning exercise does not align with an individual’s schedule, Dr. Veigel reassures that exercising at any time is beneficial. “Researchers associated with the study say the same thing that Veigel does. The best time of day for people to workout is when they are able to.”
Consistency in exercise is key, according to the study’s researchers. They recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week. “That’s at a minimum,” Dr. Veigel emphasizes. Additionally, he suggests incorporating brief bouts of physical activity throughout the day, such as climbing stairs or performing jumping jacks, to keep the heart rate up.
In conclusion, while the study suggests potential benefits to exercising in the morning, the most important factor is finding a time that works best for each individual to maintain a regular exercise routine. Ultimately, consistent physical activity is crucial for overall health and well-being.