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Getting Better Sleep as a Triathlete

Getting Better Sleep as a Triathlete
May 24, 2019 / By medadmin

Getting Better Sleep as a Triathlete

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If you are training for the triathlon, getting enough sleep every night becomes even more important. Sleeping gives your body a chance to repair itself and become strong enough for your next workout. If you skimp on rest, you’ll be more tired during your workouts and your performance may suffer. It’s imperative to get at least eight hours of sleep every night.

Here are some tips for getting better sleep as a triathlete:

Avoid Intense Exercise in the Evening

While it’s alright to do a light run or bike ride in the evening, you should be careful not to go to hard when the sun goes down. If you exercise too aggressively just a few hours before bedtime, your heart rate will go up and you may have a difficult time falling asleep. Save your intense workouts for the morning.

Eat Light at Night

Ideally, you’ll want to eat dinner at least three or four hours before you go to bed. If you eat a big meal right before you go to bed, it can increase your insulin and keep you awake. If you feel hungry right before bedtime, have a light snack like a Greek yogurt or piece of fruit.

Don’t Drink Caffeinated Beverages Too Late

If you’re like many people these days, you need a cup of coffee (or two!) to energize you and help you focus on your daily tasks. While it’s perfectly alright to drink caffeinated beverages in the morning, they should be avoided in the evening. Caffeine can keep you up for hours, which isn’t something you want when you’re training for the triathlon. If you want something to drink in the evening, stick to water and herbal teas.

Turn Off Electronic Devices an Hour Before Bedtime

It isn’t a good idea to watch TV or surf the Internet right until you go to bed. All that light from the electronics may keep you up longer than you want. To help yourself go to sleep easier, turn these electronic devices off about an hour before you go to bed.

Do Something Relaxing Before You Go to Bed

If you have trouble falling asleep right away, it may be helpful to do a relaxing activity before you go to bed. For example, you can practice yoga or meditation in your bedroom. You may also consider taking a bubble bath or reading a book. The more relaxed you are, the easier it will be to fall asleep.

Adjust the Thermostat

Before you hit the sack, you should turn down the thermostat a few degrees. It’s easier to fall asleep when it’s cooler.

If you follow these tips, you should have a much easier time falling and staying asleep. If you are looking for assistance with your training, you should think about hiring a triathlon coach offers. He or she can create a tailored training regimen for you and help you meet your goals.