Choosing the correct mattress can have major implications for the quality of our sleep experience.
A recent survey revealed that those individuals who enjoy between seven to eight hours of deep sleep per night (7.5 hours is ideal) will enjoy enhanced levels of physical performance. The survey also revealed that there is a marked difference in the results of physical activity between those who are using a new mattress as opposed to those using one that is between eight to ten years old.
Runners will hit their goals 59% of the time if they are resting on a mattress that is between one to four years old. Those using a mattress that is between eight and ten years old will reach their goals only 6% of the time.
Those who are focused on weight training will hit their goals 54% of the time if they are resting on a mattress that is between one to four years old. This percentage shrinks to 8% for those using a mattress that is between eight and ten years old.
57% of those engaging in aerobic exercise will reach their goals if they are resting on a mattress that is between one to four years old. This figure decreases to 9% if they spend the night on a mattress that is between eight and ten years old.
According to a report authored by Dr. Jacobson in the ‘Journal of Applied Ergonomics‘ a noted publication focused on ergonomics a new mattress can improve the quality of sleep and reduce physical pain the next day. A related survey saw respondents report significant improvements in the following areas:
– A 62.8% reduction in back pain
– A reduction of 62.4% in shoulders pain
– Improvement in back stiffness by 58,4%
– An improvement of 64,4% in the quality of sleep
– Enjoying a more comfortable night’s rest – 69,6%
Karin Dillner compared the experience of an older mattress with that of a comfortable old pair of sports shoes. As with sports shoes, the mattress will slowly conform to your body – and at the same time will have lost the ability to provide optimum levels of support. She concluded that in much the same way that we need to periodically invest in new sports equipment, so should we be investing in the equipment (particularly a quality mattress) to ensure we receive a good night’s sleep.
The BSC is an organization focused on providing the public with information on the importance of sleep in order to enjoy a better quality of life. This organization also dedicates its activities to exploring the concept of superior sleep systems – and the optimal environment required for a good night’s sleep. The BSC recommends that consumers evaluate their mattresses based on four focus areas and questions that may indicate that it needs to be replaced. These questions are:
– Is the mattress between five and seven years old?
– Does the sleeper wake with back pain, stiffness, or discomfort?
– Does the sleeper enjoy a better night’s rest in a bed other than their own – for example, at a hotel?
– Does the mattress show signs of excessive use such as stains, indents, damage, or similar?
Take a look at these data driven hybrid mattress ratings. On this page, you will be able to make an informed decision about the mattress that suits your unique needs prior to making a purchase.
