Exercise and sleep

This post is an answer to a question one of my followers had on exercise and sleep.  How much sleep does one need every night to function normally when they exercise?  Is it the same as someone who doesn't engage in regular physical activity?

Sleep is extremely vital when one exercises.  Not only is it important for everyday function, but it is more so when you exercise.  Why?  We all know that exercise and healthy eating are important for optimal health, but did you know sleep helps the body to recover form the 'stress' we put it through, especially during strenuous physical activity?  Lack of sleep can cause adverse affects and affect our workouts.  Too little can cause injury or health problems.

Now, there are many different factors that determine how much sleep one needs per night and it varies from individual to individual.  Age, gender, physical activity, health, lifestyle, work, etc. all differ for each person. Most healthy adults should get between 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night to function properly.  Keep in mind, one can sleep too much just like one can exercise too much (overtraining).  Bottom line, just don't over do it

Things to avoid to get a good nights rest are: overtraining, nicotine, caffeine & large meals before bedtime.  Any of these can affect sleep and our next day's ability to function optimally.

http://www.sleep.com/content/exercise-and-sleep