Expert: Brandon Briggs, MS - 5/18/2009

Question
Hi,
I have some questions that I would like to know the answers for:
1)   What would be the optimum temperature range for an aerobic exercise? I personally prefer low temperatures e.g. 20C.
2)   Is it true that eating a large meal causes weight gain as the body will convert the excess calories to stored fat in the body, therefore, if the same meal is divided into smaller portions that are within the body’s requirements it won't be stored in the body as fat though the calories intake are equal in both cases, however, the period is different?
3)   What is better exercising before going to bed or early in the morning? and which one will burn more calories?


Answer
Hi Omar,

Sorry for the delay in an answer. Recommended temperatures are above 5C and below 30C. If you like exercising at 20C that is fine. There is not really an optimal temperature as long as your body responds well. If you eat anything over what your daily expenditure of calories there is the possibility of storing those excess calories as fat. Eating more small meals through out the day is consider a better method by some dietitians. You may want to consult a dietitian/nutritionist to help you on your specific diet. Exercising before bed or in the morning is preference. If you did the exact same work out you would burn the same amount of calories. Time of day doesn't have impact on calories burned. It you are a morning person and you like exercising in the morning, you will get it done and won't have to worry about time as an issue later in the day if things come up unexpectedly

Hope this helps.

Brandon