Just as stretching and strength work go hand in hand in improving mobility, strength, and stability; sleep and recovery play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being. It is common for people to believe that in order to be healthy and strong, they need to push their bodies to the limit and never take a break. This couldn't be further from the truth. Without proper sleep and recovery, the body can only push so far before it reaches its breaking point.
Just like how stretching unlocks the ability to train muscles that you may not be able to tap into, proper sleep and recovery allow your body to heal and recharge, preparing you for the next workout or daily activities.
The National Sleep Foundation states that sleep plays a vital role in physical recovery, as well as mental and emotional restoration. It helps the body repair and regenerate tissue, boost muscle mass and recovery, as well as reduce inflammation and the risk of injury.
Proper sleep also has a direct impact on performance and athletic abilities. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine suggests that individuals who get adequate sleep tend to perform better, have quicker reaction times, and improved cognitive function compared to those who do not get enough sleep.
In order to optimize the benefits of sleep and recovery, it is recommended to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, and to prioritize rest days in your fitness routine. Just like how strength work and flexibility work complement each other, proper sleep and recovery should also be considered an essential part of maintaining overall health and well-being.
Don't neglect sleep and recovery just as you wouldn't neglect strength work and flexibility work. It's all about finding the balance between pushing your body to reach its potential, and giving it the proper time and care it needs to recover and perform at its best. Working with a personal trainer at BUILD.POWER.GRIND can help you establish healthy routines, or asking your group class instructor for some tips to get better sleep and recovery habits!