Running performance and sleep patterns in canadian female university soccer players

Abstract

This longitudinal, correlational study aimed to assess running performance and sleep patterns in female University Sports soccer players (N = 12; 19.44 + 1.69 years) in matches played with less than 24 hours of recovery. Global Positioning System (GPSport) was used to assess running performance throughout games during the 2016 season. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was to determine good and bad sleeper’s, while the Core Consensus Sleep Diary was used to determine total sleep time (min), time in bed (min), sleep efficiency (%), sleep onset latency (min), wake after sleep onset (min), number of awakenings (#), and sleep quality. Overall, players had significantly (p < .026) reduced running performance from the first to the second game, while sleep variables were typically significantly decreased after the second match. Our study indicates that coaches can rotate players and sleep hygiene strategies should be implemented to help mitigate any negative effects of disturbed sleep.