High intensity resistance training improves sleep quality and anxiety in individuals who screen positive for posttraumatic stress disorder: A randomized controlled feasibility trial

Purpose: Posttraumatic stress is disorder (PTSD) is a disabling psychological condition that often causes chronic sleep issues. Exercise has beneficial effects on sleep in healthy individuals. However, little is known about the effects exercise on sleep in individuals with PTSD. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of a resistance training intervention on sleep quality, PTSD, anxiety and depression symptoms in individuals who screened positive for PTSD. Methods: While blocking for gender participants were randomly assigned to either a 3-week resistance training intervention (i.e., 9 total sessions), or a time-matched attention control. Results: A total of 22 participants were randomized into the study. The mean age was 33.0 years (SD = 13.3), 82% were women, and 77% identified as a racial minority. Over 90% of sessions were attended by both groups. Results demonstrated that the resistance training group reported significantly improved global sleep quality F(1, 16) = 12.04,p < 0.01, sleep latency F(1, 16) = 13.45, p < 0.01, and reduced anxiety F(1, 17) = 5.45, p = 0.03 relative to the control. However, PTSD and depression symptoms did not significantly differ between groups (p's > 0.05). Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that three weeks of high intensity resistance training can improve aspects of sleep and reduce anxiety in individuals who screen positive for PTSD. The results further support the safety, feasibility, and acceptability of resistance training for this population. These results are preliminary, and should be further verified by larger adequately powered trials.