Early exercise can do more than wake you up—it can also protect your heart.
A new study It found that people who exercise first thing in the morning have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, including coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and obesity.
The researchers analyzed data from Fitbit trackers worn by about 14,500 adults over the course of a year.
Instead of tracking physical activity like walking or going to the gym, they counted any 15 minutes of elevated heart rate as exercise.
The results? Compared to those who worked later in the day, the early movers were:
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31% less likely to develop coronary artery disease
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18% less likely to have high blood pressure
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30% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes
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and 35% less likely to be obese
The biggest benefit was seen between 7 and 8 in the morning
Importantly, these differences were maintained regardless of how much total exercise people did.
Any exercise is better than none, says the lead author, but “If you can exercise in the morning, it seems to be associated with a better rate of cardiometabolic disease.”
The researchers say the study doesn’t prove cause and effect, and factors such as hormones, sleep and genetics may also play a role.
This study will be presented at the meeting American College of Cardiology Annual Scientific Session.
Author Affiliations: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School Chan
