In the world of triathlon, where rigorous training schedules and race demands push athletes to their physical and mental limits, recovery is just as important as the training itself. While many triathletes focus on post-workout nutrition, stretching, and massage for recovery, one often-overlooked factor has an outsized impact on how well your body bounces back: sleep.

Sleep is an essential part of our daily lives and is critical for maintaining physical and mental health. However, not all sleep is created equal. There are different stages of sleep that occur throughout the night, each with its unique characteristics and functions. Understanding your sleep stages, particularly the difference between deep sleep and light sleep, can help you improve the quality of your sleep and overall health.

Sleep is a crucial component of an athlete's overall training regimen, as it provides the body with the necessary time and resources to repair and recover from physical exertion. While the amount of sleep required varies depending on individual needs, most adults require between seven and nine hours of sleep each night.