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Daily Record
Daily Record
Lifestyle
Jacob Rawley

Weight loss could be 'sped up' by exercising during specific hours of the day

Health experts have revealed that working out in the morning can boost metabolism, which helps with weight loss.

While there is no 'wrong' time to exercise, those looking to slim down may see the greatest benefits coming from an early morning exercise class between 5am and 8am, according to Bulk.

The sports nutrition experts explain that elevated levels of cortisol levels and a growth hormone in the morning are both associated with your metabolism. They specifically recommend high-intensity training in the morning for those who are on a weight loss journey.

And it's not just that, one of the biggest advantages to an early morning workout is feeling more alert - believe it or not.

While you might feel exhausted as you drag yourself to the gym, your body produces a hormone called cortisol which is at its peak level at around 8am in the morning.

The experts say that while you may be better off working out to lose weight in the morning, those looking to build strength and muscle might be better off exercising in the evening.

Those who want to build muscle and strength might be better off training in the evening (Getty Images/Westend61)

They explained that muscle strength and function peaks in the evening, as fluctuating hormones can make workouts later in the day more effective.

High levels of cortisol in the morning can prevent muscle growth, however high levels of testosterone in the evening boosts it.

However, those exercising in the evening should remember that they may feel hungry a little later than usual, and should not allow that to lead to them eating too late. This is because it can go against your body’s circadian rhythm, impacting your metabolism.

A spokesperson for Bulk says: "There is no bad time to exercise, it just depends on the types of workouts you do and the results you want to achieve.

"Generally, for those who want to achieve weight loss, an early morning workout is more effective, and for those wanting to build muscle and tone, afternoon or evening is better.

"The most important thing is to find a time that suits you best, and if you feel better working out early morning as opposed to late night or vice versa, then do so. A workout should give you a sense of achievement and make you feel good.

"For those who do have certain body goals, consistency is key, therefore choose a time you feel you can stick to help your body ease into a comfortable routine."

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