If you have recently started exercising or been going for a while now, one thing is still so important and that’s recovery.
I wanted to keep this simple because we could get sidetracked with so much from ice baths, post-workout supplements, compression tights, cryotherapy, stretching the list could go on.
While all the above could have some benefit if you’re a professional athlete looking for the one per cent improvement, the main thing which has been overlooked most is:
Sleep
Depending on what your situation is, sleep is still most important.
You may have a young family (I get it, sleep can be very hard to get), and it will make it harder to get unbroken sleep. Therefore your workouts and recovery may not be perfect and it’s OK, you have a very important job so do what you can.
You may play sport (not at the moment) but when you return and be at your best each week you play, not only is your training so important to be match fit, but your sleep to help recover so you’re ready for the next week.
You may have just begun lifting weights and got into a new exercise routine, you may find you want to sleep more as a result, it’s completely normal as you need the sleep for recovery.
Whatever your situation, don’t underestimate sleep not only for recovery, but other aspects of your life as well, like mental health or focus at work. I don’t think we fully understand the benefits of getting enough sleep. Make it a priority.
Here are sleep hours recommendations
14-17 Years – 8-10 hours
18-64 years – 7-9 hours
65 + years – 7-8 hours
