WEIGH TO GET GOOD SLEEP

Daytime exercise in later life will help us enjoy golden slumbers

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LET'S take a closer look at how being active during the day could lead to peaceful nights...

Researchers found that lifting weights in later life may enhance our sleep quality and reduce insomnia.

The study, published in Family Medicine and Community Health, analysed data from 24 clinical trials involving 2,045 individuals aged 60 and older. Researchers examined the effects of various types of exercise on sleep and found that strength/resistance training was the most effective at reducing insomnia.

Using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the findings revealed that strength/resistance exercise improved the PSQI score by 5.75 points.

In comparison, aerobic exercise improved the score by 3.76 points, while combination exercise resulted in a 2.54 improvement.

We spoke with two doctors who offered insights into how exercise can improve your sleep, as well as recommendations for some of the best activities to try.

Can exercise help improve our sleep?

Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy said: “Yes, exercise is a key component in improving sleep, for multiple reasons.