Do Sleeping Patterns Have an Effect on Athletic Performance?

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the benefits of sleep with regard to athletic performance by observing the sleep patterns of two women collegiate basketball players in season. Sleeping patterns were recorded using an Apple watch and an iPhone over a seven-week period. Current research shows many benefits from sleep, with athletic performance figuring prominently. Studies have shown a higher success rate within teams who recorded high sleep quality and longer duration of sleep when compared to teams with low quality and short durations. Although the previous research supports sleep affect athletic performance, due to limitations, this study did not support those findings. Research in this area should continue to help researchers collect more significant data to make a more concise generalization on the relationship between sleep and athletic performance.