Thanks to Scott for sharing a blurb from an article written by his favorite sports writer, Bill Simmons, on why Steve Nash is just as good today, at age 36, than he’s ever been.  Could it be Performance Enhancing Drugs, some kind of black magic, or could it be as simple as his diet and getting proper rest?  Nash credits a no-sugar diet and a steady dose of sleep, which he records in a sleep journal, as vital to his quick recovery after games.  He says that he can really feel the difference when he has back-to-back games.  Getting quality sleep (8-9  uninterrupted hours in a dark room) is essential in allowing his body to recover and he goes so far as to even keep a journal.  Just because Nash minimizes sugar intake doesn’t make his diet full blown Paleo, Primal, or Zone but it’s definitely a step in the right direction and Nash’s performance, longevity, and consistency speak volumes to the importance of diet and rest.  If eating better and sleeping more is working for one of the game’s most respected and talented players, maybe we should follow his lead.

REST DAY 02.21.10