Circadian Rhythms for Training (and study!):

Training Q&A [Moderated]
1

Hi guys,

First of all a big thanks for the content you put out. For the first time in my training history I feel like my progress is consistent and my motivation is at a high. Who knew that not training bone-on-bone maxes every week and squeezing another 2.5lbs on the bar every week could make both training more enjoyable and increase my performance and motivation…

Anyway, I was wondering if there is much research on the optimal time to train? From what I read online, it seems to be better to train in the evening due to circadian rhythms; but unfortunately I can’t find any studies to back this up, just a bunch of “life-hack” articles about it.

And while I’m at it, I wonder if you guys know how circadian rhythms effect one’s ability to learn and process information and if there is an optimal time to study? As medical students, I’d imagine you know a thing or two about this.

Thanks again, and keep up the great work!

2

I think the last time I looked into training times there were a few major players in performance:

  1. Expectations of performance given a certain environment and environmental cues (so, some mental input here)
  2. Arousal levels (tend to be higher 6-8 hrs after waking)
  3. time from previous training session (>12 hrs tends to be better than < 12 hrs)

There are studies on all of the above, though I don’t have them handy and need to get to other work atm. Consider it an exercise in how to find research articles :slight_smile:

I have no idea what the effect of circadian rhythms are on learning and if there is an optimal time to study.

1 Like
3

I’ll see if I can dig up those research articles, thanks for the reply Jordan :slight_smile: