Aerobic Exercise Improves Sleep: This Week on AOL Health

Yet another reason to get moving: Researchers say cardiovascular exercise, especially among women 55 and older, is a successful sleep aid, and a more natural alternative to prescription medication.

After following two groups of adults, one who regularly exercised and another who was only moderately active, the individuals who participated in aerobic activity four times a week reported improved sleep patterns.

Though it's still not clear why this type of physically activity promotes healthy sleep, Dr. Reena Mehra, medical director at the adult sleep lab at University Hospitals Case Medical Center, told AOL Health that she has always recommended exercise to her patients.

"As we age, we're more likely to experience sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome, and this could be contributing to the inability to get a good night's sleep," she said.

For more information on this study and other advice from Dr. Mehra on how to have a restful slumber, read the complete story on AOL Health.

Think you don't have time to exercise? Take a look at what some That's Fit readers do to make it work and think again.