It’s no secret that sleep plays an important role in all aspects of our lives. Not getting enough quality sleep can contribute to a variety of issues, from weight gain to poor concentration. But what about sleep and exercise? Is it just as important?

Absolutely. Sleep is an essential part of good health and physical performance. Without adequate rest, you won’t have enough energy to power through an intense workout and you won’t be able to give your best effort. Lack of sleep can also put you at higher risk for injuries, as your coordination, reaction time, and judgment may all be impaired.

The link between sleep and exercise goes even deeper than that. Sleep helps to regulate your body’s hormones, which can have a powerful effect on your fitness goals. Poor sleep can lead to a decrease in anabolic hormones like testosterone, IGF, and growth hormone. That means less muscle growth and endurance and a higher level of the hormone cortisol, which is related