A recent study has shed light on the beneficial connection between early morning exercise and healthier lifestyle choices, including lower body weight. While the debate about the optimal time for physical activity continues, medical experts emphasize the importance of incorporating exercise into one’s daily routine, regardless of the time chosen.
The study, published in the medical journal Obesity on Tuesday, examined the physical activity and health data of over 5,000 individuals across the United States. The findings indicate that individuals who engage in morning exercise, typically between 7 and 9 a.m., tend to have a lower body mass index (BMI) and smaller waist size compared to those who exercise later in the day. Additionally, the morning exercisers were observed to engage in more sedentary activities later in the day.
Researchers also observed that those who exercised in the morning exhibited healthier dietary habits throughout the day, choosing nutritious options. However, the study authors emphasized the need for further research, considering their study as an initial step in understanding these associations.
Physical activity has demonstrated numerous health benefits for people of all age groups. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), regular physical activity reduces the risk of depression, enhances bone health, and improves academic performance in children. For adults, it lowers the risk of stroke, high blood pressure, and contributes to better mental health.
Despite these well-established benefits, the CDC reports that only half of adults meet the recommended levels of physical activity, and adequate physical activity could prevent 1 in 10 premature deaths.
Current CDC guidelines suggest that adults aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, combined with at least two days of muscle-strengthening exercises. Moderate-intensity activity is described as any activity that elevates heart rate and increases respiration, encompassing activities such as walking, cycling, dancing, and even lawn mowing. This equates to just 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
The CDC emphasizes that the 150-minute goal is a minimum requirement and that exceeding this threshold yields greater health benefits. For those engaged in vigorous aerobic activities like jogging, the minimum recommended duration is 75 minutes per week.
Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services encourages adults to maintain an active lifestyle by moving more and sitting less, underscoring the importance of regular physical activity in promoting overall well-being.
