u/KariemKalicharan

I'm a habitual side sleeper and I’m waking up with hip and shoulder pain every morning. My current mattress is about 6 years old, if I'm right, it’s either too soft so I sink, or when I flip it, it’s too firm and my shoulder goes numb.

I’ve been testing beds in stores, but 5 minutes laying down isn’t giving me real answers. I need something with solid pressure relief for my joints, but enough support that my spine isn't sagging.

I’ve seen ads for adjustable/air-based beds and smart mattresses that adjust firmness, but I’m skeptical. I also tend to sleep warm, so temp control is important.

For other side sleepers who fixed joint pain, what worked for you? Did you go memory foam, hybrid, latex, or something else?

I'm in my mid 20s, 68 kg trying to hit 73kg. 13 weeks to my marathon. Also coaching hoops so my weekly load is kinda messed up. Right now I'm running 4x a week in average 10-12 miles minimum long run. Doing also lifting at least 3x a week and doing barefoot plus pool work for recovery. Calories are up but my RHR and HRV are trash and my easy pace is getting slower.

I know concurrent training is a thing, but most of the research is on athletes who aren’t also on their feet 15 hours a week.

For S&C folks out here, how would you periodize this? Do you drop lifting volume, prioritize sleep more over calories, or just accept that performance in one will tank? And any recovery modalities that actually moved the needle for you? I’m already doing contrast showers and mobility. I appreciate any advice.