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Can you bank sleep to improve performance?

  • Writer: Sophie Bostock, PhD
    Sophie Bostock, PhD
  • Jun 12, 2021
  • 1 min read


I am well aware of the irony of finalising this video after 11pm at night 🤦 but no-one's perfect 😉


This video is all about what to do, and what not to do, before embarking on a sleep deprivation challenge - travel, a big deadline at work, an ultra endurance event, or rowing around Britain 🇬🇧🚣


It turns out we're not so hot at 'adapting' to short sleep as many of us think we are.. at least as far as alertness is concerned.


The best performance is likely to come with a minimal sleep debt...


I'll be tracking my sleep using an Oura ring throughout the row, AND testing my alertness using the PVT task every day during the row... more on this in a future post!


I'll be leaving home in a few hours to meet the boat, Roxy, and then we'll be setting off on Sunday morning! I will send some pics when I can :)


Huge thanks to everyone for all your messages of support 😁 xx


7 Comments


nana lyly
nana lyly
May 30

I’m interested to see how the daily tracking with the Oura ring and PVT tests compares to real-world experiences on the water. As someone who enjoys challenges, I know that balancing preparation and endurance can be tricky—almost like playing Slope Rider, where every decision affects the outcome. I hope the row around Britain goes smoothly, and I look forward to seeing the updates and photos from the adventure.

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aidio
May 27

This is a fascinating look into sleep banking! It's definitely a topic many of us wonder about, especially when trying to optimize performance. While I'm not sure we can truly "bank" sleep in the way we might think, understanding the nuances is crucial. For anyone looking to improve their communication, I've found a handy tool called Email Generator that can help craft better messages.

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Carlson Roy
Carlson Roy
May 26

basketball stars becomes even more enjoyable because no two players approach the game exactly the same way. Some rely on precision shots, while others master defensive timing and steals. The ability to customize strategies makes every match feel dynamic, competitive, and full of surprising moments from start to finish.

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rotie brown
rotie brown
May 14

Tracking sleep and alertness during such an intense row sounds fascinating! Managing fatigue, performance, and timing every step is like Crossy Road—you have to stay sharp, anticipate obstacles, and make careful moves to maintain focus and reach your goal safely.

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قناة الأخ حمزة
Nov 03, 2025

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HOW CAN I HELP?

Every few weeks I tackle a juicy sleep question in videos or blog posts. Sign up for occasional updates, or to get your question answered.

If you'd like more information about speaking, coaching, or consulting, please get in touch! You can reach Sophie at sophie@thesleepscientist.com.

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© 2026 Sophie Bostock Version 4.0.

Based in Hampshire, United Kingdom

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