Should I Snooze or Put on My Running Shoes?

We’ve all had that feeling…you know that incredibly annoying feeling that comes over us when we’re not able to fall asleep. You know…the tossing and turning, the peeking at the clock (even though you really don’t want to know what time it is), and just the general irritation that accompanies staring at the clock and not being off in “dreamland.” And, if you are a morning exerciser like myself, the last thing you want to do is get up in just a few hours for an early morning workout! So, as the clock strikes 3:01am you may find yourself experiencing a wave of guilt, and asking the question - should I really get up to exercise this morning or let myself sleep in?

Maybe this is not your scenario, but you have one that goes like this: You’ve had an incredibly stressful week, your body feels a little run down, and you are just craving some extra sleep more than anything. And, you too may be experiencing a little guilt for contemplating skipping the gym to catch some more rest.

While the decision is ultimately yours to sleep or workout, I can tell you as someone who has done both, that I probably needed sleep more than pushing through some much “dreaded” workouts. Luckily, after years of trial and error, and getting to know, listen and understand my body’s needs a lot better, I am much more inclined to listen and choose sleep instead. But, now there is even research suggesting that it’s really best to curl back up in the sheets at these sleep deprived times.

A recent study by the National Cancer Institute found that while exercising can reduce a woman's risk of cancer by as much as 20 percent, not if she does not get a good night's sleep. According to the research, sleeping less than 7 hours a night eliminates the cancer-fighting benefits of exercise. And, in some cases lack of sleep increased the risk by 50 percent. Additionally, not getting enough sleep can also lead to memory problems, induce depression and weaken a person's immune system.(http://www.wral.com/lifestyles/healthteam/story/4004264/)

Believe me, I am not suggesting that this research serve as a free pass to skip the gym everyday that you are sleepy! We really do need BOTH healthy amounts of sleep and exercise to live our best life. But, there is some truth to why we should be listening more to what our bodies really need the most. Not to mention that our performance during our workouts almost always suffer when we are sleep deprived.

So, the next time you are feeling really torn between snoozing or going to the gym, try to stop and really listen to what you need most. Deep down, I know if you do this, you will have your answer:-)

Wishing you health, happiness, and great sleep!

Your trainer,

Ashley