Recovery
B · Reasonable confidenceAt what time of day you are strongest and fastest
Subject: Circadian rhythm and maximal strength and endurance performance
What this means
Sprint power and jump height were clearly highest in the afternoon and early evening. Grip strength also peaked later in the day. For endurance there was little evidence of a fixed peak time.
Knaier R, Qian J, Roth R, Infanger D, Notter T, Wang W, Cajochen C, Scheer FAJL · 2022 · Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise 54(1):169-180
What does this rating mean?
A solid systematic review with caveats, or consistent indications with a limited scope.
Findings
Performance varies across the day, with differences between strength and endurance.
Who this applies to
People of any age, sex and fitness level; the researchers set no limits on these.
Size of the research
63 studies, of which 29 could be analysed together.
What to keep in mind
The risk of bias in the individual studies was fairly high. The summary does not report the number of participants.
Practical conclusion for REZA
Relevant when assessing progress. Comparing a morning session with an evening session skews the picture, so measurement moments are scheduled at the same time of day where possible.
View method and source
Methodology
Systematic review with meta-analysis
Original source
DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000002773 · PMID: 34431827
View on PubMed →This information is general education about scientific research. It is not personal medical advice and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a doctor or other healthcare professional. If you have symptoms, a medical condition or take medication, consult your GP or treating professional before changing your training or nutrition.