 |
How
To Use a Stationary Bike to Get a Better Night's Sleep
A stationary bike, like any exercise, can help you to sleep
better. The physical activity it provides stimulates and stresses
you (in a good way), and your body will compensate for this
by sleeping better.
The best exercise for sleeping well is one that provides you
with a good workout without overdoing it.
Exercise that does not challenge you enough will not help you
sleep much better (although anything is better than nothing).
And exercise that is too challenging on your body can be dangerous
to your health and may cause you to sleep poorly.
A stationary bike can be appropriate for anyone with any degree
of physical fitness. However, people who don't have much history
of exercising and are not in good physical condition often find
that a stationary bike suits them. That's because they can do
it in the privacy of their own home where they will feel more
comfortable. Also, it's fairly hard to overdo it on most stationary
bikes, and they are much safer than regular bikes.
A Bored Mind Does Not
Sleep Well
I've noticed that stationary bikes are bought with the best
of intentions, but they often end up sooner or later in the
garage, never to be seen or used again.
The main reason for this is that stationary bikes can be, by
themselves, boring to use. Unlike a real bike, a stationary
bike lacks the sensations of speed and changing scenery that
help keep things interesting for your mind. This is a problem
because, just like your body, your mind should be challenged
and stressed (in a good way) throughout at least part of the
day. When it is challenged, it will recover from this by inducing
better sleep at night.
Challenge Your Mind
as You Pedal
To ensure that a stationary bike stimulates both your body and
mind, you don't want to just pedal away in some room with your
mind idle and bored. Instead, watch an intelligent show or movie
on TV while you cycle, something that makes you think and watch
actively instead of passively. In other words, stay away from
virtually all sitcoms(!). Another option, of course, is to read
something. Again, the best choice is something that your mind
finds stimulating and a little challenged by.
A stationary bicycle can be a good workout for your body. And
the time you spend on it can also be exercise for your mind.
By challenging your body and mind throughout the day, not just
one or the other, but both, you greatly improve your chances
of getting a good night's sleep.
And you'll also improve the chances of the stationary bike staying
out of the garage.
|
