Tossing and turning every night? Doing more physical activities throughout the week is a known way to improve sleep, but new research shows you don't have to run a marathon or visit a gym to reap those benefits.
Low-intensity, low-impact exercise can improve sleep and ease the symptoms of insomnia, according to a new meta-analysis of 22 randomized clinical trials published Tuesday in the journal BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine.
The trials involved 13 non-pharmaceutical insomnia treatments, including seven fitness regimens, acupuncture, massage and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Among the exercises studied, yoga, tai chi, and walking or jogging showed the most promising evidence of helping participants fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, with less awakenings.
