Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend runner or simply someone hitting the gym a few times a week, sleep is where the real recovery happens. While exercise builds strength, sleep repairs, restores and prepares the body for your next challenge.
Why recovery happens at night
During deep sleep, blood flow to muscles increases, helping repair tissue damaged during exercise. Growth hormone, which supports muscle building and fat burning, is also released at this stage. Without enough quality sleep, you’re more prone to injuries, slower recovery and reduced performance.
The South African sleep picture
According to the Sloom Sleep Survey, Gauteng residents sleep longer than residents of other provinces, but many still report restless nights. For active South Africans, this means missed opportunities for recovery that can impact energy and training goals.
How to boost recovery through sleep
- Stick to a consistent bedtime, even on weekends.
- Keep your bedroom cool - the ideal temperature is around 18°C.
- Invest in a supportive mattress that helps muscles fully relax.
The Sloom Original Mattress is designed with multiple comfort settings so you can find the right balance of support and pressure relief. For athletes and active individuals, this flexibility means your mattress adapts as your body’s needs change.