Our circadian rhythms are intrinsic time-keeping biological clocks that also influence athletic performance. Sleep is essential for all aspects of athletic performance including optimal reaction times, accuracy, optimal motor function, focus, motivation, glucose metabolism, memory and learning, as well as stress regulation – all of which are integral for athletic performance. So how do sleep and our biological and circadian rhythms influence athletic performance? Of course, as is the case with any coaching, one can teach athletes skills, but the practice and utilization needs their buy-in and motivation. Coaching the sleep muscle includes all aspects of improving and optimizing sleep, starting from education, giving athletes science-based tools that will ensure proper sleep. It’s based on the old fashioned term, when ‘a coach’ was a horse drawn carriage that took you from point A to point B. Meeta Singh: I work a lot with athletes, so the concept of coaching at the most basic level is easy for them to understand. Is this a new concept, and is it something we all need to start doing?ĭr.

Seven expert tips that help athletes sleep smarterįit Planet: You talk about coaching the ‘sleep muscle’.The simple technique that helps you identify your own personal sleep needs.Tips for maximizing the benefits of exercise while balancing the need to recover.How sleep and our biological circadian rhythms influence athletic performance.

Athletes sleep expert