How the timing and nutrient status of aerobic exercise affects energy metabolism in adults with overweight and obesity

Examining Time and Nutrient Dependent Effects of Aerobic Exercise on Energy Metabolism in Adults with Overweight and Obesity

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10886945

This study is looking at how the time of day you exercise—morning or evening—and whether you've eaten before working out affects how your body burns energy, which could help people who are overweight or obese find better ways to lose weight and improve their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10886945 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the timing of aerobic exercise, whether in the morning or evening, and the nutritional status of participants before exercise influence energy metabolism over a 24-hour period. Participants will engage in aerobic activities under both fasted and fed conditions to assess changes in energy expenditure, fat oxidation, and hormonal responses. The study aims to identify effective strategies for enhancing weight loss through exercise, particularly focusing on the metabolic benefits of exercising at different times of the day. By analyzing these factors, the research seeks to provide insights that could help individuals with overweight and obesity optimize their exercise routines for better health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are classified as overweight or obese and are interested in improving their weight management through exercise.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or obese, or those who have contraindications to aerobic exercise, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective exercise recommendations for weight loss and improved metabolic health in adults with overweight and obesity.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the effects of exercise timing and fasting on metabolism, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.