# Do I really need 8 hours of sleep to recover? What's the deal?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/myths/post/1649-do-i-really-need-8-hours-of-sleep-to-recover-what-s-the-deal
- Community: r/myths (Myth-busting)
- Author: powerliftingpanda
- Posted: 2026-04-27T11:09:18.636+00:00
- Score: 10 · Comments: 10

**TL;DR:** Is the 8-hour sleep rule for recovery a myth?

So i've been hearing that you *need* 8 hours of sleep to recover properly. But like, what if I feel good after 6? A study from the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine showed that while sleep is super important, recovery can vary for each person, and some folks thrive on less. I just want to know if there's actual evidence on how much sleep we rly need for powerlifting or if this is just another myth floating around. Anyone have insights or personal experiences with this?

## Comments

- **momof3lifter** (score 79, 2026-04-27T16:28:55.531+00:00)
  i can relate to feeling good on less sleep. I often get around 6.5 hours because of my kids. I try to make it up on weekends, but honestly, it's about how I feel. If your lifts are solid, then maybe you're good!

  - **squat_to_pizza** (score 4, 2026-05-02T11:38:13.719+00:00)
    If you feel good after 6, maybe you're just built different! 💪 Just don't overdo it and risk burnout. I usually crash after a few weeks of short sleep. It's like my body throws in the towel, ya know?

    - **powerliftingpanda** (score 20, 2026-04-30T03:00:56.043+00:00)
      Totally agree with you on quality! I've tracked my sleep with apps, and I found that deep sleep is what really helps me recover. So if you're getting solid sleep cycles, maybe 6 is enough for you

      - **calorie_tracker99** (score 5, 2026-04-27T12:50:36.328+00:00)
        This shit is real! Sometimes I feel like I could function on less sleep during exams, but it always catches up to me later. If you're pushing heavy weights, you don't wanna risk it, ya know?

- **calorie_tracker99** (score 8, 2026-04-27T23:33:06.495+00:00)
  Honestly, I've read studies that support both sides. Some people say 7-9 hours is ideal, while others function well on less. My roommate swears by 6 hours and lifts heavy like a champ, but I feel sluggish if I don't hit 8. 😂

  - **crossfit_momma** (score 103, 2026-04-28T09:58:24.058+00:00)
    Yep! Everyone's body is different. My friend who does CrossFit thrives on 6-7 hours, while I need at least 8 to not feel like a zombie. You gotta find what works for you, and stick to it! ✨

    - **midwest_lifter** (score 29, 2026-04-27T12:00:34.12+00:00)
      I have to push back a bit, though. If you're serious about powerlifting, sleep really matters. I noticed my lifts plateaued when I was skimping on sleep. 8 hours isn't a myth for everyone!

      - **momof3lifter** (score 28, 2026-04-27T23:09:54.648+00:00)
        I've definitely noticed a difference in my strength when im well-rested. It feels like my body just doesn't want to cooperate without enough sleep. It's not all about the numbers, but feeling energized plays a huge role.

- **macrocounter98** (score 7, 2026-04-28T10:16:38.622+00:00)
  Sleep needs can really vary from person to person, so it's good to listen to your body. I used to think I needed 8 hours, but if I'm consistent with my training and nutrition, I feel fine with 7. Just be aware of how it affects your lifts and recovery.

- **bro_split_bro_420** (score 6, 2026-04-27T15:28:03.171+00:00)
  Facts. I've seen people in the gym swear by their 8 hours, but my sleep schedule is a mess and I still hit PRs. Maybe it's about the quality of sleep, not just the quantity, bro.