Long-Distance Traveling in Basketball: Practical Applications Based on Scientific Evidence

Abstract

Long-distance traveling is a concern for professional basketball coaches, players, and owners, as sport-based research has demonstrated that short-haul flights (≤6 h) increase injury risk and impede performance. However, examination of the impact of air travel on players’ health and performance specifically in the National Basketball Association of the United States of America (NBA) is scarce. Therefore, this chapter examines the literature pertaining to the influence of air travel on health and performance in team sport athletes with suggestions for future research directions in NBA basketball. Prominent empirical findings and practical recommendations are highlighted pertaining to sleep, nutrition, medication, recovery, and scheduling strategies to alleviate the negative effects of air travel on health and performance in elite basketball players.