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Sleep Improves Athletic Performance

Posted Jun 09 2010 12:00am

I know this sounds common-sensical, but this article reviews research indicating that increasing sleep for a seven-to-eight week period improved college football player's sprint times, as well as increased energy level and reduced daytime drowsiness.  From the article:

Results indicate that football players' sprint times improved significantly after seven to eight weeks of sleep extension. Average sprint time in the 20-yard shuttle improved from 4.71 seconds to 4.61 seconds, and the average 40-yard dash time decreased from 4.99 seconds to 4.89 seconds. Daytime sleepiness and fatigue also decreased significantly, while vigor scores significantly improved.

The sample was small, so replication is necessary.  However, as the article notes, the results are consistent with research into the positive impact of sleep on performance in other sports.  It also covers the observation that while getting enough sleep is important, specifics are generally not provided as part of fitness routines.  The article provides a few details in that regard.  Bottom line - as I've posted about again and again, get enough sleep.  It will improve virtually any area of your life.

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