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Posted by u/caffeine_and_curls··Hot Take

What's the best pillow for side sleepers who lift? My neck is wrecked.

TL;DR: Looking for pillow recs for side sleepers who lift; my neck is killing me.

So I've been lifting for a while now, and I swear my neck is so tight after sleeping on the wrong pillow. Side sleepers unite! I need something that supports my head without wrecking my alignment. Any recommendations? Also, do I need to be tracking my sleep quality or can I just blame my pillow? Asking for a friend (me).

26 comments

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u/depressedlifter·

Neck pain is the worst. Can't even lift without feeling like a rusty robot. Sometimes I wonder if I'm too old for this shit.

23
u/bro_split_bro_420·

Pillow game weak, bro? Get a contoured one or something. Or just embrace the pain, lmao. 100% need that neck support when you're lifting heavy.

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Based on my experience, a thicker pillow works better for side sleepers. It keeps ur neck straight. Honestly, I just blame everything on the pillow, but maybe that's just me coping.

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u/recomping_rebel·

Honestly, if your pillow isn't working, just switch it out. Don't overthink it! I track my sleep quality, but I still wake up tired sometimes. Just part of the grind.

1

Honestly, I switched to a memory foam pillow, and it's been a game changer for my neck. No more waking up feeling like I got in a fight with my bed. Also, tracking sleep quality helps you see patterns, but the right pillow can really help too.

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u/vegan_gains_99·

For real, side sleepers need proper support. A lot of side sleepers swear by the Purple pillow or something similar that offers adjustable height. Plus, if you're tracking sleep, make sure to check how much REM you're getting; that impacts recovery.

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u/sweaty_warrior·

I feel you on the neck pain! I used to have the same issue until I tried a buckwheat pillow. They mold to your head and keep your spine aligned. Just remember, alignment matters just as much as the weight you lift!

10
u/sweaty_warrior·

i was a side sleeper with neck issues too! I found a latex pillow that supports my neck well. Have you tried any yoga stretches before bed? It can really help with tightness.

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u/runningfromcardio·

Sometimes it's not just the pillow but your sleeping position too. If you're tucking your arm weird, that can mess you up. Try changing things around!

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u/fearlessfemale_99·

You gotta invest in a solid pillow! I switched to one that's adjustable, and it's been a game-changer for my recovery. Don't forget to stretch after your lifts too, it helps!

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u/running_on_empty·

Pillow debates are real, man. A supportive one can help your body recover after lifting, so don't settle. If you wake up stiff, it's time to reassess your sleep setup.

10

I feel you on the neck pain! I've been there, and honestly, a good memory foam pillow changed my game. It cradles my neck and keeps my spine in check, plus I can't live without my morning coffee for the lift.

5
u/macro_counter98·

For real, side sleepers need the right support. I switched to a contour pillow, and it helped me so much. I also track my sleep now, and I can see the difference in my lifts. Quality sleep is key!

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u/whey_addict·

If you're looking for a good pillow, I'd recommend one with cooling gel. Trust me, your sleep will improve. And yeah, tracking sleep is helpful, but don't stress too much about it.

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u/briankoel·

I used to have terrible neck pain until I changed my pillow and mattress. Sleep hygiene matters! Check your room temperature too, that can also affect your sleep quality.

10
u/weekendwarrior88·

This is why I always say, invest in your sleep! A quality pillow can save you from a lot of discomfort. Plus, don't forget to drink enough water before bed.

8

If the pillow fails you, just don't give up. Sometimes, it takes time to find what works. Lift heavy and sleep well, that's the goal!

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u/proteinpancakes22·

i went through 4 pillows before finding the right one. It's all about that personal preference. I even had to switch my mattress too. Maybe it's time to upgrade both?

2
u/depressedlifter·

Sounds like a skill issue with the pillow. You could try something like a contour pillow, might save your neck from feeling wrecked. But, you know, sleep tracking can also show if it's just the pillow or something else.

3
u/macro_counter98·

I totally agree with the memory foam suggestion. I've been lifting and sleeping on one for a while now, and my neck pain has improved significantly. You should also think about your mattress; it could be affecting ur sleep quality too!

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u/vegan_gains_99·

I went for a bamboo pillow that's breathable and adjustable. As for tracking sleep, it helps to know if you're in deep or light sleep. I mean, more sleep = more gains, right?

4
u/keto_lifter98·

My neck pain lessened after switching to a buckwheat pillow. Super adjustable, it keeps my spine aligned, and it's eco-friendly! Tracking sleep is cool too, but don't let it stress you out.

5

Have you ever thought about a pillow with different height options? That can really help with alignment. Plus, tracking sleep quality might highlight any issues with your recovery.

1
u/recipequeen44·

I know it sounds excessive, but a sleep tracker can provide insights into your quality. Combine that with a supportive pillow, and you might just level up your recovery.

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u/bro_split_bro_420·

Bro, just get a pillow that's firm but still comfy. No one wants a flat pancake under their head while they sleep. Just don't be a pillow princess.

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u/squat_to_pizza·

Fr, a bad pillow can ruin your day. I tried this fancy one with a cool design, but it did nothing for my neck. Stick with memory foam or something supportive.

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