A direct association between physical activity and sleep quality has been reported. However, much of the data focused on specific conditions or in selected individuals, which are not representative of the population at large.

A total of 1,438 individuals aged ≥40 years were included. Data collection focused on the levels of physical activity and sleep quality. Multivariate models were fitted to assess independent associations between adequate physical activity and good sleep quality, after adjusting for relevant covariates.

Physical activity was categorized as ideal in 676 (47%) individuals, intermediate in 644 (45%), and poor in 118 (8%). According to the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, 880 (61%) individuals having a good sleep quality. In univariate analysis, the percentage of individuals with a good sleep quality was lower among individuals with poor and intermediate physical activity when compared to those with ideal physical activity. Using individuals with poor physical activity as the referent category, a logistic regression model showed that a good sleep quality was significantly associated with intermediate (OR: 1.54; 95% C.I.: 1.03 – 2.30; p=0.036) and ideal (OR: 1.78; 95% C.I.: 1.18 - 2.69; p=0.006) physical activity, after adjusting for relevant covariates.

This population-based study provides robust epidemiological evidence favoring an association between adequate levels of physical activity and good sleep quality in middle-aged and older adults living in rural settings.