Sometimes we forget that the simplest things can negatively impact our health and, in turn, our performance. Sleep can be one of those things that we take for granted.
Sleep plays a vital role in the health and function of athletes that need to be at the top of their game physically and mentally.
It can impact:
Cognitive performance: Memory, decision making and alertness.
Physical Health: Healing and recovery, metabolism, muscle growth and weight control.
Mental Health: Stress, anxiety and mood.
A minimum 8 hours of sleep is recommended for someone age 17-22 for optimal health and function.Sleep is essential for the human body to do what it needs to do, especially for an athlete who demands so much from it.
Get in the habit of making sleep a priority because you may be missing out on its benefits.
Sources: National Athletic Trainers Association, National Collegiate Athletic Association, American College Heath Association.
