Recent figures from Sport Vlaanderen (2023) show that more than 60% of Belgians exercise weekly. Whether you jog a few times a week, cycle regularly, or train intensely for a big challenge, one aspect is still too often underestimated: sleep. Especially the combination of the right mattress, bed, and pillow can influence your sports performance. Sleep expert and business manager Elke Bosmans is happy to tell you more about the added value of a good sleep system on your sports performance.
"A good sleep system is to athletes what training schedules are to their muscles: the foundation on which everything rests. Too many athletes only discover its importance as soon they start having symptoms," says Elke Bosmans.
Why is sleep essential for those who exercise?
During the night, crucial recovery processes take place in your body:
- Muscle recovery and growth: During your deep sleep, your body produces growth hormone. This hormone is essential for muscle recovery after strenuous exercise. It's essential for performance day after day.
- Drainage of waste products: Both muscles and brain eliminate waste products thanks to adequate rest.
- Mental sharpness: Poor sleep leads to 20-30% slower reaction time and less focus, which immediately affects your athletic performance.
Research shows that athletes who get less than 7 hours of sleep per night have a 60% higher risk of injury. Muscle recovery can also be up to 30% slower due to sleep deprivation. "You can prevent this by good advice, good sleep hygiene and the right sleep system," Elke says.
How does the right sleep system help your performance?
"At Bosmans Slaapcomfort, we notice it every day in the store: many athletes spend hours on their training, but forget to invest in their sleep. That's a shame! Because the right combination of mattress, bed, and pillow can significantly improve your recovery and performance," Elke notes.
The mattress for athletes: why so important?
Muscles and joints need deep relaxation after physical exertion. A standard mattress often provides insufficient support for this. Therefore, as an athlete, consciously choose a mattress that:
- Adaptively supports: A good mattress adapts to your body shape and sleeping position.
- Offers good ventilation: You will sweat more during exercise, even at night. A breathable mattress prevents heat build-up, which improves your sleep quality.
- Is durable: A high-quality mattress for athletes maintains optimal resilience for years, something often lacking in standard models.
"We consciously work with brands that offer mattresses that have been extensively tested for support after physical exertion," says Elke. Figures show that 80% of athletes with a customized mattress report improved recovery within 4 weeks.
The importance of bed, box spring and base systems.
Your bed, and certainly a good box spring, are the foundation under your mattress. An adjustable base allows you to adjust your posture, which can be smart after a strenuous athletic performance (think slightly elevating your legs after a running race). Box springs offer an additional flexibility and an extra comfort layer, which accommodates micro-movements and allows your muscles to rest optimally. Research shows that athletes are less likely to wake up on a box spring with dynamic support.
The right pillow: often forgotten, yet crucial.
"While sleeping, your neck and shoulders need to relax completely. A pillow that is too flat or too high puts tension on your spine, and you'll definitely feel it after physical exertion," says Elke.
Choose a pillow that matches your sleeping position. Side sleepers often need a firmer, thicker pillow, depending on the width of their shoulders. Back sleepers should opt for a slightly lower model. "Did you know that 70% of back and neck complaints among athletes can be traced to the wrong pillow?" adds Elke.
Invest in your own body.
Every body has different needs and athletes need to take care of their bodies. "That's why at Bosmans Slaapcomfort, we take the time to truly listen to you and measure your body. This way, you discover which sleep system best suits your sporting lifestyle. In our store, we see that athletes who invest in their sleep system not only report fewer injuries but, above all, also feel much more energetic. Even after a hard workout," says Elke Bosmans.
Our tips in a row:
- Come test your mattress together with a sleep expert in our store.
- invest in a quality box spring for extra support.
- Get advice on the right thickness and firmness of your pillow.
- Choose brands that have proven themselves with top quality and innovation.
Athletes, visit us for advice
An athletic life requires a strong body and a good night's sleep is essential. Invest in an appropriate sleep system, choose a mattress designed for athletes, and take your recovery as seriously as your next workout.
Would you like personal advice or to try out a mattress? Come along to Bosmans Slaapcomfort! Our expertise and passion make every night and every sports performance just that little bit better.
