Start the day right

Run before breakfast and you could burn up to 20% more body fat, according to research from Northumbria University.

Scientists sought to find out whether the benefits of exercising on an empty stomach were offset by extra calories being consumed later in the day.  They discovered that those who had exercised in the morning did not consume additional calories to compensate for their activity, and they burned more fat than those who exercised after breakfast.*

This is useful to know but there are two things to remember:

1) A small breakfast prior to exercise could help you work out for longer or with greater intensity, increasing your fat burn yet further

2) If you ensure your workout schedule is regular, you'll be an efficient fat burner whatever time of day you find to exercise

So, if you really want maximum fat burning, check your schedule to accommodate exercise every 2-3 days and work hard during each training session.

*Source Women's Running Magazine

Image by lululemon athletica Flickr