MPH’s Diamond: Late afternoon, early evening best time of day to break Olympic records
Multiple studies have found that circadian rhythm—a kind of biological clock that governs mood, appetite and sleepiness—can affect athletic performance. As a result, at certain points of the day, athletes will biologically be at their peak for competition. Alex Diamond, assistant professor of orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, said there is one time of day that is best for both pro and amateur athletes to break records.