Having Trouble Sleeping? Get Moving!

If you’re having trouble nodding off at night, it may have to do with your lifestyle during the day, suggests a new report. According to news sources, researchers have found that there’s a “compelling association” between our physical activity and sleep quality. This means that even when exercisers and non-exercisers slept for the same length of time during the night, the exercisers had a better sleep.

Interestingly, the researchers found that both groups slept about the same number of hours each weeknight (an average of six hours and 51 minutes), but the exercisers were less likely to wake up early, have trouble falling asleep, or wake and struggle to fall back to sleep. Perhaps not surprisingly, then, the non-exercisers were more likely to have trouble staying awake while driving or at other points during their days. Exercisers also had a reduced risk of insomnia and sleep apnea.

The researchers do point out, however, that it can be tricky to determine cause-and-effect. For instance, having a bad night’s sleep may make us less willing to do a full workout the next day. Regardless, adding more fitness to your life has great benefits—and isn’t hard to do! While we’re aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity per week, even 10 minutes of walking added to your typical day may help improve your sleep.

This March, we’re focusing on fitness

That extra 10 minutes of walking can also help us achieve our March 12 Months of Wellness goals! Check out our recent blog post to learn more.

More surprising benefits of exercise

Regular physical activity is also linked to better sex, a boosted immune system, less pain, boosted energy, and a happier mood. Find out even more exercise benefits in our recent article, “10 Exercise Benefits for Men”.  

What do you think?

I know I always sleep better after a good workout, as long as I don’t work out too close to bedtime! What about you? Let us know via blog, Facebook, or Twitter. While you’re at it, tell us how #2013alive March fitness goals are going! Are you finding more time to get active in your daily life?