Sleep is crucial for muscle building, athletic performance, and fitness in general. And is essential for an athlete's health, recovery, and mental state. More sleep, or extended sleep, can benefit an athlete greatly. Let's get into some details to why sleep is so important.
1.) Recovery - Sleep allows your body to recover from exercise, strengthen muscles, and avoid fatigue and injury.
2.) Muscle Repair - While you are sleeping, your body produces growth hormone, which helps repair and build muscles.
3.) Overall Health - Sleeping helps support the immune system and improve overall cognitive function.
It is recommended that athletes sleep from 7 to 9 hours every night. And to treat sleep just as important as your training plan and diet.
Here are a few tips for a good night's sleep:
1.) Avoid alcohol and caffeine before bedtime.
2.) Have an appropriate sleep environment. (Dark and little to no noise)
3.) Stay away from electronics before bedtime.
4.) Avoid overtraining (this can raise your cortisol levels and distrupt your sleep)
5.) Keep naps brief.
6.) Try to avoid or reduce stressors.
