Sleep is a major factor of recovery, which is essential for sports performance. This is well known, researched and practised. However, there are many aspects of life that can affect your sleep, its quantity and its quality.
Modern technology allows us to have a vast amount of portable knowledge and information just a few clicks away. Because of this, many of us often find ourselves drifting off to sleep whilst scrolling through whatever takes our fancy that day.
The world of sports performance has seen huge advancements thanks to technology. However, some media has highlighted that our portable bundles of information may actually be inhibiting our sleep and recovery.
The Effects of Electronic Devices on Sleep
Despite what some media articles has stated (Independant Article), the following study saw different results. Over a 6 day period, the sleep of 23 athletes was recorded. The study found that the removal of electronic devices over a 48 hour period had little effect on the duration and time to onset of sleep. In addition, it highlighted the difficulty of actually increasing sleep duration by creating an environment, better suited for sleep onset.
It is important to note that the study was performed on elite athletes within a training camp environment. Read the full article here.
So… What Does This Mean?
Mix results in studies make it hard to give a recommendation or suggestion. As a result, the best way to approach the topic would be to conduct your own mini experiment on yourself. Measure your sleep over a decent period (5-7 days) with no constraints. Record energy levels, how you feel and how you perform. The following week try removing electronic devices for an hour or so before bed. Record sleep duration as well as energy levels, how you feel and how you perform.
This way you can get a result that matching you. Your body and your training.
Expert Personal Training in Richmond, London allows me to come in contact with people from all walks of life. Everyone is different and reacts differently to training and recovery. Finding out what works for each client allows for optimal results and performance. There is no reason to approach Personal Training any differently to Expert Strength and Conditioning in London.