The Los Angeles Brain Research Institute has conducted a new experiment which contains some fascinating results. Published in the December Journal of Physiology, the study involved several mice, manipulating the species internal clocks to determine the most efficient time of day for exercise.
Although the researchers expected to find that the greatest effects of exercise would come with a morning work out, which is popular for many athletes, the results suggested something different. The mice that ran in the afternoon produced more internal clock proteins, and pumped the protein more efficiently than the mice who ran early in the day.
Scientists were able to establish that afternoon workouts helped to regulate bodily clocks and circadian rhythms, however it is unknown if there are any further benefits of timing your exercise.
One thing that isn't suggested is late night work outs. The doctors say that this disturbs natural circadian rhythms and can lead to trouble sleeping.
[NY Times]
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