Does Exercise Boost Your Sleep? What Americans Are Saying

Summary: A study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that 53% of Americans believe exercise helps improve their sleep quality. The survey highlighted that exercise benefits sleep differently across age and gender, with men and younger adults more likely to report positive effects. The study also noted that exercise plays a significant role in improving daytime alertness, with 28% of Americans using exercise to boost their energy levels. The findings suggest that incorporating regular exercise into daily routines can contribute to better sleep and overall well-being.

Key Takeaways:

1. Exercise Improves Sleep Quality: The study found that 53% of Americans believe exercise enhances their sleep quality.
2. Gender and Age Impact Sleep Benefits: Men and younger adults (aged 25-34) are more likely to report that exercise helps them sleep better.
3. Exercise Boosts Daytime Alertness: 28% of Americans use exercise to increase their energy levels during the day, improving daytime productivity.

When preparing for the new year, many Americans make resolutions focused on getting back to the gym or finding a new exercise routine. In fact, according to Pew Research Center, 79% of resolutions concerned health in 2024. 

While many make this decision to feel healthy and look good, there is another benefit of working out that many don’t consider: sleep. A new survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) found that more than half of Americans (53%) say exercising helps them get a better night’s sleep.  

“Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for your mental and physical health, along with getting the right duration of quality sleep,” says AASM president Eric Olson, MD, in a release. “In terms of improving your overall well-being and preventing seasonal illness or some chronic diseases, healthy sleep and exercise go hand in hand.” 

The impact of exercise on sleep differs by sex, as men (63%) are more likely than women (43%) to say that exercising helps them sleep better. Additionally, younger adults aged 25-34 are the most likely (62%) to report that working out positively impacts their sleep. Also, exercise plays a vital role in improving daytime alertness, as 28% of Americans report using exercise to boost energy when they feel sleepy during the day. 

“Quality sleep can do wonders for your productivity, mental and physical health, energy levels, and even your relationships,” says Olson in a release. “Make sleep a priority by creating a routine that is relaxing, consistent and allows you to get the recommended seven or more hours of sleep each night.” 

Developing Healthy Sleep Habits

When setting a sleep routine, pick a bedtime that is realistic and suitable for your schedule. Survey data show that more than half of Americans (53%) have a regular bedtime, with the most popular bedtimes being 10 pm (31%) or 11 pm (25%). You can also utilize tools, like the AASM bedtime calculator, to help determine when you should go to bed based on what time you need to get up. 

Here are some tips from the AASM on how to develop healthy sleep habits and reap all the benefits of your New Year’s resolutions: 

• Exercise in the morning or afternoon — Steer clear of nighttime workouts as they can increase your heart rate and make it difficult to feel sleepy. 
• Disconnect from devices at night — Turn off all electronics at least 30 minutes to an hour before your bedtime to help prepare for sleep.  
• Take a moment to reflect on your day — Try journaling or meditating to help wind down in the evening.  
• Make your bedroom quiet and relaxing — Keep the room at a comfortable, cool temperature.  

View 2024 AASM Sleep Prioritization Survey results in the AASM newsroom. Anyone who has a sleep problem can use the AASM’s sleep center directory to get help from the sleep team at an accredited sleep center.  

ID 215581471 © Alessandro Biascioli | Dreamstime.com

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