Sleep Pattern and Sports Performance of Adolescent Archers: A Pre–Post-intervention Pilot Study

Abstract

Purpose: Sleep is an important factor for sports performance. Physiological delay in sleep–wake phase and sports training pose adolescent athletes at increased risk of sleep problems. The aim of the study was to observe the sleep pattern and effect of non-pharmacological sleep strategies in adolescent archers. Methods: Fifteen male adolescent archers participated. Sleep measures were recorded using ‘School Sleep Habits Survey’ questionnaire. Awareness of benefits of good sleep on recovery in sports was done for coaches, staff and players. Institution of a sleep consultation and practice of non-pharmacological strategies to improve sleep for players was carried out for a year. Sleep measures and archery scores were analysed. Results: Sleep pattern showed delayed sleep onset and decreased sleep duration. Post-intervention, total sleep duration increased during weekdays and weekends and sleep onset latency significantly reduced during weekdays (p = 0.008). Archery practice shooting score over the year significantly improved (p = 0.018). Conclusions: Sleep in adolescent archers showed altered sleep parameters. Self-awareness and sleep hygiene education of coaches and players along with non-pharmacological interventions showed a significant improvement in sleep and archery performance. Clinical trial registration ID: CTRI/2017/05/008676.