A lot of things happen after dark – and one of them has quite a few celebrities hooked – it’s the practice of engaging in intense workouts, jogs or swims after sundown. Salman Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Shraddha Kapoor and even Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson indulge in after-dark wellness regimen. A number of 24-hour gyms are mushrooming to cater to the demand for after-dark workouts.

While exercising regularly is important to leading a healthy life, how good is it when done at night? Dr Rajeev Rajesh, Chief Yoga Officer, Jindal Nature Cure Institute, says exercising late at night can elevate the heart rate and disrupt sleep. “Physical activity generally causes dehydration and releases stress hormones, keeping you alert. The bright lights at the gym and the increase in stress hormones can inhibit the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone,” he explains.

However, those who have busy mornings and packed days often find night-time to be the most convenient for workouts. “The key is to be mindful of the timing and type of exercise, ensuring it doesn’t affect your ability to fall asleep and remain sleeping. It is best to engage in light to moderate-intensity activities at night,” advises Dr Rajeev, pointing out that this level of exercise can help people fall asleep faster and improve quality of sleep.

“Examples of light to moderate-intensity exercises include yoga, stretching and walking. In contrast, strenuous physical activities like running, high-intensity inter.