A study conducted on members of the Stanford basketball team shows that increasing your sleep longevity can actually help you perform better than ever. The study monitored the subjects for 2-4 weeks maintaining their regular sleeping habits, and then the subjects spent 5-7 weeks where they were encouraged to get a minimum of 10 hours a night.
They saw increases in performance across the board, lowering a timed sprint average from 16.2 seconds to 15.5, and increasing their free throw and 3 point shooting by over 9%. They were also recorded as being in better moods and enjoying themselves more thoroughly. Adults are encouraged to aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep per night to function at their full potential. Studies have shown that a lack of sleep leads to a decrease in learning ability, control of motor functions, and can be attributed to increased risk of diseases.
The study indicates that not only are we happier and healthier with enough sleep, we actually perform better as well. Our bodies are more adept and better suited to take on the daily challenges of life when we are well rested and regularly sleeping well.
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