Effects of sleep deprivation on recovery

It is commonly known that sleep deprivation affects exercise performance. This study by Skein et.al. (2003) investigated the effects of sleep deprivation on postexercise recovery which the research was limited, accordingly to the authors. Eleven male amateur rugby players were selected for the study and the effects of sleep deprivation on recovery following competitive matches were examined. It was suggested that sleep deprivation after a match negatively impacted their recovery. Their abilities to recover for training the next day was affected, specifically their counter-movement jump distances and cognitive function. It was recommended that players should sleep adequately after their matches to promote better recovery for the next day training or if not possible, the coach should adjust the training demand accordingly to suit their reduced physical and mental conditions.

Conclusion: Though this study is on rugby players, this could apply to athletes from other sports. For example, players may not sleep enough due to various reasons after a night game. This would affect their recovery for training the next day, more so if it occurs in the morning. Not only that, they may be required to play on the next day as well. The coach should be mindful of this. He/she should instill the habit in their players to have adequate sleep as much as possible.

References

Skein, M., Duffield, R., Minett, G. M., Snape, A., & Murphy, A. (2013). The effect of overnight sleep deprivation after competitive rugby league matches on postmatch physiological and perceptual recovery. Int J Sports Physiol Perform,8(5), 556-64.