Background <p>Optimal physical performance in elite athletes relies not only on training and nutrition but also, on adequate rest and recovery, particularly Sleep. Sleep facilitates tissue repair, hormonal regulation, and neuromuscular recovery, which are all essential for strength and performance, especially in sports like gymnastics, where both explosive and sustained strength are vital.</p> Purpose <p>This study aimed to investigate the association between sleep parameters and muscle strength in competitive gymnastic athletes, a population requiring high neuromuscular performance and recovery capacity.</p> Methods <p>A cross-sectional correlational design was employed involving 56 competitive gymnasts aged 15–21&#xa0;years. Sleep quality and duration were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Muscle strength was evaluated using physical test (number of push-ups performed in a minute) for upper body. For analysis, Global PSQI scores were correlated with muscle strength Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses were conducted to explore associations between sleep measures and strength outcomes.</p> Results <p>Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that Gender (<i>β</i> = − 6.19, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), Component 5(sleep disturbances) of the PSQI (<i>β</i> = 4.15, <i>p</i> = 0.02), and Global PSQI Score (<i>β</i> = − 3.75, <i>p</i> = 0.017) were statistically significant predictors of muscle strength.</p> Conclusions <p>Sleep optimization may be a critical, non-invasive strategy for enhancing neuromuscular performance in elite sports. This study highlights a significant association between sleep quality and upper body muscle strength in competitive gymnasts. Poorer overall sleep and greater sleep disturbances were linked to reduced strength performance. These results underscore the importance of promoting healthy sleep habits as a potential avenue for optimizing athletic performance in young gymnasts.</p>