Wearable technology determines the optimal time for improving your health

A groundbreaking study conducted by the University of Sydney has shed light on the importance of the timing of exercise in relation to cardiovascular health. The study, published in Diabetes Care, followed over 30,000 adults for eight years and found that those who were most active in the evening had the lowest risk of death from cardiovascular disease.

Participants in the study wore wrist accelerometers to track their physical activity levels throughout the day, with researchers categorizing them into morning, afternoon, and evening exercisers. The results were staggering, showing that evening exercisers had a 61% reduction in mortality risk compared to those who did not engage in physical activity.

Even short bursts of evening activity were found to be beneficial, particularly for individuals classified as obese. While afternoon and morning exercise also showed a lower risk of death compared to no physical activity, the benefits were not as significant as those seen with evening exercise.

These findings have important implications for individuals who struggle to fit longer workouts into their schedules. The study suggests that even brief periods of exercise in the evening, such as a brisk walk or strength training session, can greatly improve cardiovascular health.

This study aligns with previous research indicating that our bodies may be primed for physical activity later in the day. It also highlights the importance of finding a consistent exercise routine that works for each individual. With the rise of wearable technology and the quantified self movement, we are better equipped than ever to understand the impact of our daily routines on our overall well-being.