1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Longevity

How Does Exercise Help You Sleep?

By Mark Stibich, Ph.D., About.com

Updated: December 19, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Question: How Does Exercise Help You Sleep?
Answer: Sleep is brought on by chemicals released in your body. These chemicals are a by-product of your body burning sugar for fuel during the day. The more sugar you burn (the more active you are) the more of these chemicals are released, helping you sleep better and deeper. However, some people find exercise stimulating and have trouble sleeping if they exercise too late in the day, so time your exercise for maximum benefits.
More Longevity Q&A
Explore Longevity
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Longevity
  4. Anti-Aging Exercise
  5. How Does Exercise Help You Sleep?

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.