Is physical activity an effective remedy for insomnia? - a review

Introduction and purpose This article explores the impact of physical activity on insomnia and sleep quality. It reviews existing research to clarify how exercise affects sleep patterns, identifies mechanisms through which exercise improves sleep, and evaluates practical recommendations for integrating physical activity into insomnia treatment. The goal is to offer valuable insights for individuals and healthcare professionals on using exercise as a non-pharmacological method to manage insomnia. State of knowledge The article reviews the literature on sleep, with a particular focus on the issue of insomnia. By understanding the causes of sleep disorders, it is possible to implement targeted diagnostics and subsequent treatment. The impact of physical activity on the overall problem of insomnia is also highlighted. Material and Methods A review of literature from 2004 to 2024 was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. Keywords included "insomnia," "sleep disorder," and "sleep impairment." The review focused on English-language primary research articles from peer-reviewed journals. Summary The review highlights the role of physical activity in managing insomnia, emphasizing its positive effects. Evidence indicates that regular exercise significantly reduces the risk and severity of insomnia and improves sleep quality. This underscores the effectiveness of physical activity as a valuable non-pharmacological approach to enhancing sleep and overall well-being. Keywords Insomnia; physical activity; sleep disorders; quality of sleep; sport