Nap-Ercise Could Significantly Improve Your Health

@classitup_fitness_by_kathy_d

If you’ve never been the type to jump out of bed at 6 a.m. and skip to the gym, you aren’t alone. But one U.K.-based fitness center has taken the seemingly lazy workout approach to an entirely new level. Let us introduce: the nap-ercise workout.

A post shared by Prue Henschke (@mamasmetime) on Apr 29, 2017 at 11:51pm PDT

David Lloyd Clubs is the first fitness center to offer “classes” that involve 15 minutes of stretching followed by a 45-minute nap.The class provides twin beds, blankets, pillows and eye masks to each participant, and let’s not forget the calming presence of 20 other strangers napping alongside you.

Yep, you’re essentially paying to catch some Zzzs. But don’t let your assumptions run rampant — the class could have more benefits than you think.

A post shared by Classitup Fitness by Kathy D (@classitup_fitness_by_kathy_d) on Apr 28, 2017 at 9:27am PDT

David Lloyd Clubs’ website states that “the frantic nature of modern life means that few of us seem to get enough sleep.” It says the class was created for people who need to “boost their mental and physical wellbeing.”

There are a handful of studies that suggest a midday nap can help boost your cognitive functioning, metabolism and overall wellbeing. Researchers at Allegheny College found that midday naps can help relieve mental stress and even improve cardiovascular function. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that insufficient sleep is a health problem in the U.S. and that a short nap each day can help speed up your metabolism and improve your concentration.

The science is there, so we’re happy to consider napping a part of our daily routine. If only, right?