Did you feel rested when you awoke this morning? Are you getting at least 7 hours of sleep EVERY night? Can you stay alert and focused every day without chugging the coffee and/or soda? If you answered yes to at least one question, you could be sleep deprived. Sleep deprivation can sabotage your weight loss efforts. Chronic insomnia is the most common sleep disorder among adults. Whether your problem is insomnia, stress, or hormonal, your health depends on a good night’s sleep. It’s crucial for your overall health, mood, and productivity. There are healthy ways of getting sufficient sleep. I’m going to talk about how exercise can help you get your ZZZZZZZZZ’s.
Research is ongoing with respect to exercise and how it facilitates sleep cycles. Although researchers aren’t exactly certain WHY exercise helps, they are sure of this: exercise reduces the time it takes to fall asleep and increases the length of sleep. Another great reason to grab your workout gear and get moving!
Regular, consistent exercise reduces stress levels, depression, and anxiety. These are the reasons why exercise could help you sleep more effectively. However, improvements in sleep occur over time, not immediately. For example, when you begin an exercise program to improve health and lose weight, a transformation doesn’t occur overnight. It can take a few weeks to notice the benefits.
The intensity and duration of the exercise are key factors. Athletes who engage in hard-core workouts don’t necessarily achieve the advantage of a good night’s rest. Studies have shown that moderate intensity exercise is preferable.
Time of day is also important. The optimal time to exercise is in the morning with natural light exposure. It’s best to avoid exercise late at night, especially less than two hours before bedtime.
A good night’s sleep is so critical to your well-being. Regular exercise can help relieve insomnia and the stress that’s preventing you from sleeping.
If you need help with an exercise program, come see one of our fabulous trainers!! FORTY WINKS!!
Cat Keller has a wealth of experience in marketing, e-marketing, advertising and customer service and manages our Weight Loss Nutritional Store. She is always planning something fun and exciting. special events, discounts, giveaways – it’s never a dull moment. She is happy to help you with questions you may have regarding our products or services. Cat is a graduate of William & Mary, where she studied Government/Pre-Law and minored in Marketing.