Effects of Low-intensity Exercise in the Morning on Afternoon Exercise Performance

Abstract

This study examined the eŠects of low-intensity exercise in the morning on exercise performance in the afternoon. Fifteen healthy men were exposed to two measurement conditions: 30 min of bicycle exercise at 40 z of maximum oxygen consumption (morning exercise) or rest in the sitting posture (control) at 8:30 AM. Physiological parameters were measured at 4:00 PM with the participant at rest in the supine position. Physical ˆtness tests and anaerobic power tests began at 4:30 PM. The two conditions demonstrated no signiˆcant diŠerence in heart rate, systolic or diastolic blood pressure, double product, total power of R-R interval variability, ln HF (index of cardiovascular parasympathetic nervous system activity), or oral temperature. Morning exercise was associated with signiˆcantly better 20-m shuttle run, standing long jump, and sit-and-reach performance compared to the control condition. No signiˆcant diŠerences in other physical ˆtness tests were observed. Thus, participants had signiˆcantly higher total physical ˆtness test scores and signiˆcantly greater maximum anaerobic power under the morning exercise condition. Our results indicate that low-intensity exercise in the morning might enhance afternoon exercise performance and may be considered an eŠective conditioning method on the day of a sporting event.