Your exercise regime doesn’t just end after you’ve left the gym. What you eat and the amount of rest you get will also affect your fitness results. In fact, scientists state that there exists a symbiotic relationship between exercise and sleep. As a result, the more often you work out, the more sleep you need, because sleep helps to repair any tissues and muscles in the body. To ensure you are getting proper sleep to feel your strongest, make these habits a part of your routine ASAP.
Munch On Protein For Your Midnight Snack
While we don’t recommend going to bed on a completely full stomach, it’s beneficial to snack on something high in protein, like a protein shake, before hitting the hay. This time is optimal for consuming protein, because it is needed to build muscles. Without it, muscles can only do a minimal amount of repair and growth during your sleep. If protein shakes aren’t your thing, try greek yogurt or turkey roll-ups as other nutritious, high protein snacks.
Get Sounder Sleep With More Activity
This is a pretty logical equation, but the more activity you do, the more likely you’ll fall asleep. By increasing the frequency with which you workout, and the intensity of your exercises, your body will need more time to repair and gain back some energy. Even just a few extra miles or repetitions can equate to a better night’s sleep!
Get Deeper Sleep With Cardio In The Morning, Weights At Night
For some people, their workout schedule cannot be flexible due to their job and home life. However, if you can choose when to work out, studies have found it is best to do cardio in the morning, and weights at night. People who did morning cardio tended to have longer “deep sleep” than those who did cardio at night. This can be attributed to the fact that performing cardio too late at night actually causes your body temperature to rise, making it harder for you to fall asleep.
Weightlifting on the other hand, does not raise your temperature as much, and the exhaustion will help you fall asleep soundly. You’re sure to get the deep sleep you need to feel recharged for your next workout!
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