Walking soon after eating maximises metabolic benefits.
Walking is often celebrated as one of the simplest yet most effective forms of exercise.
Beyond physical health, it also delivers mental clarity and emotional well-being.
Experts suggest that the time you choose to walk can influence the benefits you reap.
Whether you step out in the early morning or later in the afternoon, each slot offers unique advantages.
Morning walks are often considered the gold standard by health experts.
Getting steps in early makes it less likely that unexpected tasks or fatigue will derail your routine.
Exposure to natural light in the morning has also been shown to regulate circadian rhythms, improving sleep quality at night.
A 2024 study in the Journal of Health Psychology found that even limited sunlight early in the day enhances rest regardless of overall sun exposure.
There are also measurable health benefits.
Research published in the Journal of Physiology in 2023 revealed that morning walks improve blood pressure, insulin concentration and insulin resistance in individuals with metabolic syndrome.
These factors make an early stroll particularly valuable for those managing chronic health conditions.
However, studies suggest that body composition improvements are similar whether you walk in the morning or later in the day.
For those who struggle with early starts, afternoon walks may be just as effective.
After meals and proper hydration, energy levels are often higher, allowing walkers to sustain a stronger pace.
A 2023 study in Sports Medicine suggested that walking soon after eating maximises metabolic benefits, making afternoon strolls especially worthwhile.
For many, the additional fuel from breakfast or lunch allows them to exercise with greater intensity and endurance.
In fact, walking in the afternoon may have a protective advantage for long-term health.
A 2023 study in Nature Communications discovered that midday or afternoon workouts at moderate to vigorous intensity substantially decreased both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality risk compared with morning exercise.
Power walking, incline walking and rucking all qualify as vigorous forms, amplifying those benefits.
Ultimately, the best time of day to walk depends on personal lifestyle, body rhythms and goals.
Morning walks may better support sleep and metabolic health, while afternoon strolls can aid cardiovascular health and performance.
What remains consistent is that walking, regardless of when it happens, continues to be a powerful, accessible and sustainable way to improve overall health and wellbeing.
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