Effect of Sleep upon Recovery and Sports Performance of the University Players

Abstract

The relationship of sleep, recovery and performance was the pivot of this research study. The role of sleep is vital for the health, physiological, and cognitive functioning of players. However, the complex processes of sleep are yet unclear. A bulk of literature is available documenting the effect of sleep upon human health, and a meager amount of information exists about the role of sleep in the perspectives of players. Respondents of this research study comprised of 82 university players representing Cricket, Foot Ball, Hockey, Volley Ball, Basket Ball, Badminton, Table Tennis, and Track and Field events. Data were collected using an adapted questionnaire, "Athlete Sleep Behavior Questionnaire”. Anova and Coefficients were used for the analysis of data. Analysis revealed that there exists a highly significant association between sleep, recovery, and performance of the players. Similarly,the role of sleep in the perspective of recovery and performance of the player has also been found highly significant. Considering the findings of the study, it is suggested that players should be provided a conducive environment for sound sleep, ensuring having the proper amount of sleep during all three phases, including pre, during, and post-competition to have a rapid recovery and good performance.