30 Seconds SummaryDoes it matter at which time of day you work out?
- Our physical strength varies throughout the day due to our circadian rhythm, being generally stronger in the evening.
- A meta-analysis by Grgic et al. (2019) concluded that resistance training produces similar strength gains regardless of whether it's done in the morning or evening.
- Muscle size increases are consistent irrespective of the training time, though individual studies suggest evening workouts might slightly favor muscle growth.
- The differences in strength development over the day can be adapted to by regular training at specific times, suggesting practical application for competitive athletes to align training with competition schedules.
- Chronotypes, like 'morning larks' or 'night owls,' are not fixed, and the body's biorhythm can adapt to different schedules with proper management.
- Despite the findings, the quality of data from the studies was noted as mostly mediocre and skewed by short durations and non-trained individuals.
- For non-competitors, the time of day may have minimal impact on strength and muscle growth, making consistency and personal preference more significant factors.
MennoHenselmans.com
Menno Henselmans
