A reader asks:
Due to my work schedule, my only available time to run is at 6:00 A.M. in the morning. Is it okay for the body to run this early? Is there a best time of the day to run?
The question “what is the best time to run” is strange to many runners because the answer is usually simple – “whenever I have time.” Due to work schedules, family and friend commitments, and so many other obligations, most runners do not have the luxury of choosing whether to run in the morning, afternoon, or evening. With that said, for those individuals that do have a choice when to run there is a generally accepted answer.
According to recent studies, the human body is best able to run during the late afternoon – 4 P.M. to 7 P.M. Glycogen stores, energy levels, and aerobic capacity is generally at their highest during this time period. However, do not put too much stock into this research; while the afternoon might be the best time to run, that does not mean that the human can not adapt to running during the early morning or at night.
Additionally, the 4-7 P.M. time can be hottest part of the day during the summer months, making it one of the worst times to run. Furthermore, if you are training for a race that starts in the morning, it is good to do a few training runs at the start time of the race. This way, your body will be used to running at an early time of the day.
Therefore, while 4-7 P.M. might be the best time to run in order to get the most out of your body, do not rearrange your life to run during this time.
