Sleep Like a Champion: Boosting Recovery and Performance Through Rest

In this episode of The Elite Athlete Podcast, Dr. Nicole dives into one of the most critical, yet often overlooked components of elite performance—sleep. Whether you’re a high-level athlete or a sports parent trying to balance schedules, Dr. Nicole shares how optimizing your sleep can be a game-changer for your recovery and performance. She explains how sleep isn’t just rest—it’s when your body repairs muscle tissue, balances hormones, and consolidates all the skills you’ve been practicing. You’ll get tips on how to improve your sleep environment, manage screen time, and balance your meals to maximize recovery. Plus, Dr. Nicole shares why maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, is crucial for athletic success. You’ll also hear about how sunlight exposure, reducing screen time, and even using weighted blankets can play a role in your sleep quality. Dr. Nicole talks about the challenges of staying on track when you're traveling for games, including tips on melatonin and resetting your sleep cycle. She explains how recovery doesn't just happen in the gym—it's in your sleep, where the real progress takes place. Looking for more personalized strategies? Dr. Nicole introduces her MVP Performance Coaching Program, designed to help athletes optimize all aspects of their health and performance, including sleep. And don't miss out on her brand new Game Day Fuel Guide available for FREE at the-eliteathlete.com, full of tips to help you fuel your body right on game day. Whether you’re an athlete, a coach, or a parent, this episode will give you actionable steps to optimize your sleep and recovery so you can keep pushing your limits.