A Narrative Review of the Impact of Sleep on Athletes: Sleep Restriction Causes and Consequences, Monitoring, and Interventions

Methodology

Evidence overview

Population

Athletes

Intervention

N/A (narrative review)

Findings

Sleep restriction impairs performance and recovery and increases injury risk; athletes typically get less sleep than non-athletes. Sleep extension is the most effective intervention, alongside screening for sleep disorders and practical strategies such as consistent sleep schedules, dark/cool rooms, and limiting screens before bed.

Outcome measures

Performance, recovery, injury risk, cognitive function

Limitations

Narrative review, not systematic; no formal quality assessment.

Original source

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.76635