What I read: Nap or quick workout? A doctor explains the cognitive benefits after sleep deprivation
“Thirty minutes of evening cycling helped protect memory after a short night of sleep.
In this trial, 88 healthy young adults either cycled moderately for 30 minutes at 7 p.m. or remained seated. They later learned 80 face-name pairs before receiving either an 8.5-hour or 4.5-hour sleep opportunity.
After the shortened night, participants who had cycled recalled more than those who had rested. Their performance was comparable to the groups given 8.5 hours in bed.”
My two cents: I’ve often wondered whether to work out on the days that follow nights with less sleep. I like the idea that short workouts, say 30 minutes, actually help us in terms of memory when we get less sleep. I’ve been thinking lately about the ways that sleep and exercise are connected. Going to bed earlier helps you move more, for example. But also moving helps you get a better night’s rest.
