Istvan Balyi said something very interesting at a recent coaching course.
He feels that of all the variables of “sustenance”, sleep is the most essential for athletes. More important than nutrition or hydration!
Teenage boys can sleep as many hours as a baby. A teenage boy who trains intensely needs even more recovery sleep than his peers.
Consider interviewing your athletes regarding their sleep patterns.
related:
Psychiatric News – Sleep May Be Athletes’ Best Performance Booster
European Journal of Sport Science – Nutrition, sleep and recovery
Gymnastics Coaching.com 