Research suggests that exercise may improve symptoms of Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB), such as snoring and Obstructive Sleep apnea (OSA).NSF’s 2005 Sleep in America polls revealed that every 1 in 4 Americans are at high risk for OSA and more than half of the people who are obese are also at risk. According to the Sleep Heart Health study, of 2,275 individuals by Arizona researchers, it was found that at least 3 hours of vigorous physical activity per week reduced the risk of SDB and offered some protection against SDB, especially in men and those who are obese. The results suggest that exercise can be an important part, and not a substitute in the treatment of OSA.
Sleep Breath 2007 sep.11 93): 149-57