Daylight Savings Time allows us to stretch our afternoon and may give us the perfect time to exercise. Here are three benefits of exercising in the afternoon. (As opposed to other times of day.)

Research shows we are at peak performance in strength and endurance later in the day. One reason for this is our glucose levels are higher after a few meals. This gives us the energy to tackle harder workouts. Because we tend to work harder in the afternoon, we also burn more calories – up to 10% more. So, if you’re planning on exerting more physical energy, afternoons are best.

One study found exercising in the afternoon balances circadian rhythms by producing more internal clock proteins needed for regulation than any other time. So, if you have trouble sleeping, this might be a great solution!

Exercise is widely known to help reduce stress. Afternoon exercise, specifically, can be used strategically to put boundaries around your workday and let off steam. This is particularly helpful if you have a demanding 9-to-5. There’s nothing worse than getting home and feeling like you’re still at work. An afternoon workout is an effective way to leave work behind. It reduces cortisol and adrenaline levels, releases tension, and gives you endorphins so you’ll get home in a better mood.

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