Abstract

Sleep is generally considered to be restorative and the notion of exercise being associated with the changes in subsequent sleep is popular but has only recently been demonstrated. There are several facets of exercise performed that have an influence on sleep. These include the intensity and duration of the exercise, and the interval between the cessation of exercise and sleep onset. Other factors that may alter sleep after exercise are age and fitness of the subject, and his lean body mass. Most studies on the effect of exercise onsleep can be interpreted as being partially or totally supportive of the restorative theory of sleep function. Sleep deprivation alters performance andone may expect that, as with other physiological parameters that have a normal range, certain sleep patterns may be conducive to better athletic performance. Sleep patterns may be influenced by physical training. Extreme endurance events result in sleep deprivation. It is important to identify the clinical manifestations of this sleep deprivation. The interaction of exercise and sleep has implications for both theoretical models of sleep function and pratical aspects of athletic performance. Verf.-Referat