An informational newsletter from the FAMHS Sportsmedicine Program

ATHLETICS AND SLEEP
by Brian Meitner, M.A., A.T.C

As parents, athletes, and coaches, are you aware that:

• sleep is the body's primary activity for renewing strength?

• sleep disorders affect 13% of the US teenage population?

• inadequate sleep impairs your ability to think properly?

• inadequate sleep can cause negative mood swings?

• inadequate sleep can hurt athletic performance?

• inadequate sleep can harm classwork and interfere with relationships at home?

All of us don't require the same amount of sleep, but we all need to meet the demands of our bodies.

If a student feels overly tired in the morning and drags their way through the first few classes, they may not be getting enough sleep at night.  Without enough sleep, a person risks experiencing some of the above behaviors.

If a student stays up late to complete homework or study, they could be wasting time during the day.  This may be due to an impaired ability to think or perform caused by lack of sleep.

Adequate sleep is critical for students to be at their best in school and during practice and games!