Optimizing timing of exercise to improve metabolic outcomes in obesity and type 2 diabetes
Exercise improves metabolic health in people with overweight/obesity and type 2 diabetes, but the best time of day to exercise remains unclear. Evidence suggests morning exercise may better support weight loss, particularly in overweight/obesity, while afternoon exercise may improve glycemic control, especially in type 2 diabetes. However, some studies report no effect of exercise timing on metabolic benefits. Overall, exercise timing may offer outcome-specific advantages, but further research is needed to establish clear recommendations.
Authors
- P. Schrauwen
- T. van de Weijer
- J. Hoeks
- M. Kotte
Institutions
- Leiden University Medical Center (NL)
- Maastricht University Medical Centre (NL)
- Maastricht University (NL)
- Deutsches Diabetes-Zentrum e.V. (DE)
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DE)
- Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (DE)
Publication Details
- Journal
- npj Biological Timing and Sleep
- Published
- 2026-09-01
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1038/s44323-026-00099-9
- Primary Topic
- Cardiovascular and exercise physiology
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- Health~Holland
- ZonMw
- Diabetes Fonds
- Canadian Institutes of Health Research