It has long been known that living a full and active life helps people sleep better, but a new US study has pinpointed aerobic exercise as a key element in making sure you get enough rest at night.
A study at Chicago’s Northwestern University followed the progress of 23 previously inactive adults on an exercise program, mostly women of 55 and older, all with sleep problems, Reuters reported.
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The researchers found that after the 16-week aerobic program, which included treadmill training as well as work-outs on an exercise bike, average sleep quality improved.
“Most of poor sleepers became good sleepers,” Dr Phyllis Zee said.
Dr Zee said an earlier study using tai chi had shown less significant results as did a control group doing non-physical activities, such as cooking classes or museum visits.
“This is the first time that I’m aware of where we’ve looked at the benefits of aerobic exercise as a treatment modality in a population with insomnia,” Dr Zee said.
“We tell them to get regular exercise. But we really don’t emphasise how to exercise.”
The subjects also reported better moods, more vitality and fewer symptoms of depression.
“Vitality is everything,” Dr Zee said.
“It’s how somebody feels, how alert. If you think about the complaints of poor health, people will always say, ‘I feel so tired’.”
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