Exercise Improves Sleep

In other sleep news, results of a recent poll might offer a solution for those suffering from poor sleep quality. The findings present yet another benefit of exercising regularly.

Produced by the National Sleep Foundation, the 2013 Sleep in America® poll gathered responses from a sampling of adults, aged 23–60, who were asked about exercise levels and sleep quality. Here is a rundown of what the poll found:

• More than 75% of exercisers reported good or fairly good sleep in the weeks leading up to the poll, compared with 56% of nonexercisers.
• The majority of vigorous exercisers—defined as those participating in activities like cycling, running, swimming or competition—rarely experienced insomnia symptoms. Half of nonexercisers said they woke during the night, and 24% had difficulty falling asleep every night or almost every night.
• Nonexercisers tended to feel the most “sleepy” on a regular basis and to have more symptoms of sleep apnea.
• Those who sat for less than 8 hours per day were more likely to report “very good” sleep quality than those sitting for longer periods of time.

“Exercise is beneficial to sleep,” explains Barbara A. Phillips, MD, MSPH, FCCP, poll task force member. “It’s time to revise global recommendations for improving sleep and put exercise—at any time—at the top of our list for healthy sleep habits.”

To read more about the poll, visit www.sleepfoundation.org/ 2013poll.