Morning workouts slash heart disease risk by 31%, landmark study reveals
A major study has found that exercising in the morning could significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and other health conditions. The research, presented at ACC.26, tracked over 14,000 people using Fitbit wearables. Early workouts were linked to a 31% lower chance of developing coronary artery disease compared to later sessions.
The study analysed data from Fitbit devices worn by participants, monitoring their activity patterns. Those who exercised mostly in the morning showed lower risks of hypertension, high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, and obesity.
Researchers suggest biological factors may explain the benefits. Circadian rhythms influence hormone release, blood vessel function, glucose processing, and nervous system activity—all of which could play a role. The team also noted that behavioural and psychological factors might contribute to the observed effects. Lead author Prem Patel emphasised the potential of wearable technology to improve health insights. The All of Us research program provided a vast dataset, allowing continuous tracking of physiological signals. Patel believes these findings could soon shape how doctors advise patients on exercise timing. The study challenges traditional exercise guidelines by adding a new dimension: when people work out may matter as much as how much or how hard they exercise.
The results point to morning exercise as a possible way to cut cardiometabolic risks. Practitioners may soon include timing recommendations in health counselling. Further research could solidify these findings and refine guidelines for public health strategies.
