Why will resting make me stronger, fitter and healthier? It’s not all about training! Seriously... Get adequate rest and you’ll not only improve your body but you’ll be giving your heart and your head a helping hand too. The reason is that getting your body into a regular pattern of sleep, at the same time each night and for an adequate duration, will mean that hormone activity that influences fat storage and energy use in the body will be better regulated. Studies have shown that inadequate rest patterns can cause the production of cortisol, the hormone produced during times of high stress, which has been proven to increase appetite and facilitate increased fat storage, especially round the middle area. The second reason is the brain’s ability to effectively metabolise glucose, which is the brain’s fuel source and is utilised by the body during aerobic exercise, a resisted metabolism can cause insulin resistance meaning oxidative stress, this impairs the body’s ability to effectively flush away harmful toxins or repair damaged cells; which, over the long-term, can trigger the development of harmful diseases including cancer. Not nice hey? “Give your body chance to repair and adapt to the training you will be doing” Another potential problem is the compromised effectiveness of our immune system, which exposes us to injury, illness and chronic fatigue. Under this influence you could damage your body’s ability to build muscle, increase the chances of fat storage and place your self at a much greater risk of high blood pressure; increasing the likelihood of heart and kidney disease and stroke. Follow these three simple steps to set the perfect platform for feeling great every day. Studies show that 8 hours sleep is the most beneficial for recovery but some people may not be able to fit this in or others may need more, so commit to getting as close to 8 hours sleep per night as you can. Ever heard of an hour’s sleep before midnight being worth two after? The truth is not quite so straightforward but, certainly, research shows that those in bed by 10 have better body composition in relation to their peers. Keep as close to your week sleep schedule as you can at the weekends and try to take naps during the day to catch-up if you can’t; it’s not ideal but it’s better than missing out altogether. Sleeping-in will make it harder to fall asleep at your usual time on Sunday night and so throw all your good work off, it’s a myth that you can ‘catch-up’ during the week, the body needs consistency in work, play and rest. Greg :)
Posted on: Thu, 11 Sep 2014 18:45:01 +0000
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