An Uncomfortable Mattress

If you turn and toss during the night, then chances are you’re not falling deeply asleep. It’s deep-REM sleep that is most beneficial for recovery, and if you’re not getting it, you won’t just be tired; you might also be sore. If your mattress is uncomfortable, then you’re not doing yourself any favors by not getting a new one. But what kind of mattress should you get? That depends on a number of factors, but a few you’ll want to consider are your weight, the position in which you sleep, and what level of support feels most comfortable to you.

Firmness Level

Some athletes feel that a firmer mattress is always better, but this is a simplistic and inaccurate way of looking at things. If you sleep turned to the side, then a firm mattress might be putting too much pressure on your shoulder and hip. A mattress that’s too firm can also make your core overcompensate for that extra pressure, so your muscles tense up during the night. You don’t want that, especially if you just lifted heavy weights or you’re coming off a long run or bike ride. In choosing which firmness of mattress you want, some trial and error is probably going to be involved, but chances are you’re going to want something neither too hard nor too soft. If you’re a very muscular person, though, you’re bound to be heavier, which means you’re going to sink deeper into the mattress. A hybrid mattress with coils and memory foam might be a good option for you then.

As you can see, there’s quite a lot to consider. Your body type and your personal preference are probably going to end up being the most significant factors. Remember, we can make recommendations, but more than anything else what you’re looking for is what makes you feel comfortable. One sort of mattress might work for some people, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it works for you. You’re looking for that deeper, rejuvenating sleep, and any way that you can get there is fine.