Sleep for Optimal Fitness
By Donna Stark
There are so many aspects to consider when you start a new fitness routine. You have to research and select the types of workouts you want to focus on, you need to start planning your shopping and meals every week, and you may even need to think about changing your schedule so that you can find the time to get your exercise in. Then, after that, you have to start thinking about your workout gear, which protein powder you are going to buy, and what kind of supplements to take. There is so much to consider that it is easy to overlook some things, and surprisingly, many people overlook the most important aspect to their fitness routine of all ... sleep.
Sleep Mistakes
Trying to get a successful workout in after a sleepless night can often prove to be very difficult, yet so many people still put the workout ahead of catching up on that necessary rest. And even though we all know that sleep is vital to optimal daily function and exercise, most aren't getting nearly enough of it. This can easily spell trouble in several areas of your life, but most especially for your workouts, so it's important to get to the bottom of why you may not be getting that quality rest. Take a look at a few of the top reasons.
- Poor sleep schedules - Constantly changing your sleep pattern decreases the amount and quality of sleep you may be getting each night. It's simple ... you need quality sleep so that your body can rest, recharge, and recover from your day, so it is important to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day of the week, including weekends! Once you establish a set sleeping pattern, you may see noticeable improvements in your workout performances.
- Using electronic devices before bed - Electronic devices are starting to become one of the most prominent sleep disrupters for those of all ages and should be turned off at least an hour before bedtime. Why? Well, your brain continues to process the information it sees even after you put the device down and the bright light that is emitted from your device tricks your sleep cycle by keeping your pupils dilated.
- Binge-watching television - Who hasn't been tempted to watch "just one more episode" before they decide to turn off the television, and then realize that the "one episode" ate away hours of their sleep time? Are you raising your hand? Save yourself from that temptation by setting your television to turn off an hour before bed and finding something relaxing to do instead. That way, you can rest assured knowing that you will still be able to make that early morning gym class, fully prepared and energized!
Healthy Sleep Habits for Optimal Fitness
If you're selecting the right exercises, eating right, and taking all of the other steps necessary for a successful workout, yet are still feeling tired and sluggish, take a look at your sleep habits. Small changes can lead to big improvements, and isn't that the reason you started your fitness routine anyway?
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Sunset Hills, Mo.