Healthy Living

Evening Exercise: A New Ally In Reaching Your Health Goals

This article was medically reviewed by Tess Thomas, DO, ABFM.

At a Glance

Exercising between 6 p.m. and midnight offers the greatest health benefits, according to new research.
Various forms of physical activity were effective, even brisk walking.
Experts found the time of day you exercise is likely a key component in managing obesity and preventing Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular issues.

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For people living with obesity, or those just trying to be as healthy as possible, evening exercise might be your secret weapon.

A groundbreaking study, using data from the United Kingdom, has uncovered that engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity between 6 p.m. and midnight may offer increased health benefits.

Timing Matters

Researchers tracked 30,000 individuals over nearly eight years and discovered that evening exercisers, even those who simply climbed stairs or took a brisk walk, experienced the most profound health improvements.

This revelation, published in the journal Diabetes Care, highlights that the type of exercise you do may not be as crucial as when you do it.

Dr. Angelo Sabag, who worked on the study, emphasizes, “Exercise is by no means the only solution to the obesity crisis, but this research suggests that planning activity for the evening may best offset some of these health risks.”

Significant Results

Participants used wearable devices to track when they exercised — morning, afternoon, or evening. Researchers found that those who got their heart rate up after 6pm had the lowest risk of heart attack, stroke or death from heart disease.

Dress the part
If the UV index is high, add another layer of sunscreen. If the windchill is low, you might not need that hat or gloves. Pay attention to the impacts different weather conditions have on your body and tailor your exercise gear accordingly. — (Alvarez/Getty Images )

The study didn’t just focus on structured exercise; it accounted for any continuous aerobic activity that lasted for three minutes or more.

For some participants, vigorously cleaning the house late at night was enough to see benefits. Researchers say the timing of the physical activity appeared to be more important than the length of the activity.

So, as the evening rolls in, consider lacing up those sneakers. It might just be the perfect time to take a step towards a healthier future.

The Weather Company does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Talk with your doctor before starting any new medicine, supplement, weight loss or exercise regimen.

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