Getting Rest

While practice is where you put in the work, sleep is when your body actually gets faster, stronger, and more explosive. Scientifically, sleep is the single most critical performance-enhancing tool available to a student-athlete. During deep sleep, the body releases Human Growth Hormone (HGH), which is responsible for repairing micro-tears in muscle tissue caused by intense training.

Furthermore, track and field heavily taxes the Central Nervous System (CNS). Without adequate rest, your CNS cannot recover, leading to slower reaction times, decreased power output, and poor coordination. Studies consistently show that teenage athletes who sleep fewer than 8 hours per night are significantly more likely to suffer sports-related injuries. 

To perform at your absolute best, both on the track and in the classroom, prioritize a consistent 8 to 10 hours of sleep every night. Reference our Sleep Target Chart to lock in your bedtime!