Physical activity in the treatment of primary insomnia

Year 2024, , 263 - 267, 30.10.2024

Kamal Mezian Laura Hrehová

https://doi.org/10.5472/marumj.1573190

Abstract

Insomnia is commonplace in the general population. Poor sleep quality leads to various health dysfunctions and compromises the
well-being of the affected individuals. Non-pharmacologic approaches should be considered the first-line treatment as suggested by
various guidelines. Among others (e.g., sleep hygiene, cognitive-behavioral therapy, light therapy), appropriate physical activity seems
to be promising in treating and preventing sleep disturbance development. We found that improvement in a particular objective
and subjective sleep quality parameters may be attributed to appropriate physical activity. When further analyzing the activity, lightintensity
aerobic exercises and resistance training reduced insomnia symptoms. High-intensity interval training also showed a positive
effect on the improvement in depressive symptoms. Regarding mind-body practices, current evidence is insufficient to conclude.
However, it was documented that stress, depression, and anxiety reduction, can improve well-being.

Keywords

Exercise, Insomnia, Physical activity, Sleep quality

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