Yes, you DO need to Get Some Zzzz’s! Here's Why.
Did you know getting enough sleep can help you achieve your fitness goals, such as building muscle and losing weight? Sleep is crucial to overall good health, both for the mind and the body. On average, a person needs at least 8 hours of sleep a day. Some may need more and some a little less, but getting enough rest can be a game changer for you, both inside and out! Studies show, when a person is well rested, his/her overall mood is improved and energy increased. More positivity and more energy means you are more likely to stay committed and get your workout done. Not only that, sleep improves focus and allows you to power through the moves even more, so that you maximize your workout results.
Another benefit of getting enough sleep is recovery time after a hard workout. Sleep gives your muscles and ligaments time to repair, rebuild and get stronger. While sleeping, your body produces more growth hormone, which is essential for athletic recovery.
On the other hand, not sleeping enough can sabotage your goals. A lack of sleep can result in being tired and having a weakened immune system which can lead to more illness. Being tired and not feeling well can decrease your intrinsic motivation and commitment, thereby causing you to miss workouts or not perform as well during the ones you do complete. Additionally, a lack of sleep has been linked to lowered metabolism and increase the risk of issues such as hypertension.
As you can see, getting enough sleep leads to more and better workouts which lead to progress towards fitness goals, whereas a lack of sleep does the opposite and is a disservice to yourself. If you’re not already getting enough sleep most nights, find ways to adjust your schedule by going to bed a little earlier or sleeping a little later. Even taking a midday nap, if that is a realistic option for you, can be very helpful. If you have trouble sleeping, try turning off all electronics at least an hour before bed, spending at least 10 minutes on a quiet activity like reading to calm your mind, and create a bedtime routine you can follow every night that will let your mind and body know it’s time to go to sleep.
