FROM JAMES MCMURCHY, TRACTION PERFORMANCE SPECIALIST

I am asked regularly by athletes and clients what the best “supplement” to increase performance or build muscle is, with the expectation of the name of a particular protein powder or BCAA brand that can be bought at the store. The best supplement, by far, for anyone looking to increase their physique, performance, and overall health is free and available to everyone - SLEEP!!! It has been statistically shown time and time again that poor sleep habits decrease (to name a few) strength and power output, reaction time and decision making, immune system function, and overall cognitive and emotional wellness.

Yet people (athletes especially) tremendously downplay the role of quality sleep, thinking that they can “tough it out” or that they are not affected by it the same way as others. The adaptations (gains) from training do not happen during the activity, but during sleep when the brain repairs and remodels itself. Deep sleep is nature’s way of removing the daily buildup of toxins and stress hormones, the way that an oil change dumps the old oil and replaces it to allow the engine to function properly. You can continue to drive the car without changing the oil, and you’ll likely make it to where you’re going, but it doesn’t change the fact that you are damaging the engine (brain) and limiting its performance.

Adequate sleep is a critical component of the training and recovery process, as well as overall health, wellness and emotional management. Athletes, less than 7-8 hours a night is not cutting it!!! If you would like to know more about managing your sleep habits, contact one of our performance staff members for more information.