Effects of a Short-term Exercise Intervention on Sleep in Women Exposed to Trauma: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Inclusion Criteria: * self-reported exposure to a traumatic event * persistent (\> 1 month) PTSD-related symptoms adequate to screen positive for PTSD or self-reported history of a prior PTSD diagnosed by a health care professional. * poor sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index \>5) * failure to meet recommended level of aerobic or resistance training during leisure time. Physical activity for U.S. adults (\<150-mins of moderate or 75-mins of vigorous physical activity \[or a combination\] per week and/or \< 2 days a week of resistance training targeting the major muscle groups). * able to safely perform high-intensity exercise * aged 18-39 years * non-smoker * willing to avoid alcohol and vigorous physical activity 24 hours before visiting the lab * willing to avoid caffeine for 12 hours before visiting the lab Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant, lactating, or plans to become pregnant over the next 2 months. * Individuals who started taking medication for anxiety or depression-related symptoms within the last month. * Individuals currently taking beta-blockers or other medications/substances (marijuana and other illegal drugs) that impact heart rate. * History of reproductive disorders (e.g., premenstrual dysphoric disorder or polycystic ovary syndrome), cardiovascular (e.g., cardiac arrhythmia), or pulmonary disorders (e.g., asthma). * Pain intensity of 8 or greater in the thigh or foot in the past month * Probable alcohol use disorder