Exercise time cues (zeitgebers) for human circadian systems can foster health and improve performance: a systematic review

BackgroundCircadian system time cues (zeitgebers) acting synergistically at the right times can foster chronobiological homeostasis and ultimately health. Modern 24/7 societies are challenging chronobiological homeostasis and public health. Exercise has been discussed as a potential zeitgeber for th...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine 2018-12, Vol.4 (1), p.e000443
Main Authors: Lewis, Philip, Korf, Horst W, Kuffer, Liz, Groß, J Valérie, Erren, Thomas C
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
activity
chronobiology
circadian
Circadian rhythm
disease
diurnal
entrainment
Evidence-based medicine
Exercise
health
Homeostasis
Light
Lung cancer
Physical fitness
Physiology
Review
Sleep
sport
Sports medicine
Strength training
synchroniser
Systematic review
time-cue
zeitgeber
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Summary:BackgroundCircadian system time cues (zeitgebers) acting synergistically at the right times can foster chronobiological homeostasis and ultimately health. Modern 24/7 societies are challenging chronobiological homeostasis and public health. Exercise has been discussed as a potential zeitgeber for the human circadian system. Thus, if timed correctly, exercise may help in maintenance of chronobiological homeostasis and foster public health amidst increasingly challenging 24/7 lifestyles.ObjectiveTo test, using a systematic review of the literature, the following hypothesis: exercise is a zeitgeber for the human circadian system.Data sourcesThe PubMed database was systematically searched on 19 October 2017 for relevant scientific studies and reports concerning chronobiology and exercise. Eligibility criteria were defined to include articles considering exercise as a potential zeitgeber for human circadian rhythmicity or chronobiological effects of exercise on health and/or physical performance. Cognitive effects and effects on children were excluded from the synthesis.ResultsOur systematic literature search and synthesis is compatible with the validity of the hypothesis. We report that potential exercise-zeitgeber properties may be used to improve health and performance.ConclusionsInformed timing of exercise, specific to the circadian rhythm phase and zeitgeber exposure of the individual, must be advocated in performance and disease contexts as an adjunct therapeutic or preventative strategy and physical enhancer.
ISSN:2055-7647
2055-7647
DOI:10.1136/bmjsem-2018-000443