Can exercise improve sleep?
We all know that a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise is good for us, but did you know that our sleep patterns are affected by the amount of physical activity we engage in?
Whilst seven to eight hours sleep may be typical, not everyone needs nor indeed sleeps for this number of hours – some need more, and others less. Sleep patterns also vary with age, with older people quite often needing less sleep than younger adults.
Adding regular moderate exercise to a daily routine for 16 weeks showed middle-aged to older people could fall asleep about 15 minutes earlier and sleep roughly 45 minutes longer. (Stanford University, February 2011)
Conversely, exercising in the morning is an excellent way to get the body awake. Whether it’s going for a run or doing some other form of exercise, this stimulates the body, which perks us up.
What’s the optimum level of exercise to help us sleep?
The latest research by The Sleep Council found that people who exercise five to six times per week are the least likely to take medication to help them sleep (12% compared to a national average of 17%), which suggests this could be the optimal amount of exercise needed to improve sleep.
Said Jessica Alexander: “What’s clear is that one of the best ways to improve sleep is simply to take more exercise. For many of us, that plus a sensible, regular bedtime and a comfortable bed, are key to sleeping well.”
Top tips to help you sleep
- Don’t overdo it. Wearing yourself out physically is not particularly likely to induce sleepiness. In fact it can be counter-productive and lead to wakefulness and alertness when trying to sleep.
- Though it’s widely believed that working out too close to bedtime can disturb sleep, there isn’t evidence that backs this argument, so it’s better to exercise in the evening than not at all.
- The important thing is to exercise because it makes you feel fitter and better, and if you are experiencing sleeping difficulties, the more you exercise, the more likely you are to improve your sleeping patterns.
What to do next?
At Armagh Beds.com we want to make sure you get a great night’s sleep. As a Sleep Council Retailer our expert staff will be only too happy to advise on what bed and mattress is best for you. You can place your order and gain expert advice from our experienced team over the phone on 028 3755 1260 or even by Email. Or why not Visit in-store at Dalzells, located in Markethill, just off the A28 between Armagh and Newry and less than 45 minutes drive from Lisburn. No time to visit, no problem! With over 500 beds and mattresses in stock and free delivery across Northern Ireland and Counties Louth, Monaghan and Dublin, Armagh Beds.com provides a complete service. We also offer competitive rates for delivery throughout the rest of Ireland, which is free in the case of our Sleeptight and Respa divan beds.
