Sleep and daytime sleepiness in elite athletes and sedentary individuals

Abstract

Summary Objectives The objectives of this study were to evaluate the duration and the quality of sleep, as well as daytime sleepiness, among different levels of Arab athletes (i.e., amateur, elite) and to compare sleep quality and duration and daytime sleepiness in athletes and sedentary individuals. Material and methods A total of 409 participants, characterized as elite athletes (n = 78), amateur athletes (n = 231), and sedentary individuals (n = 100), participated in this study. Participants were asked to complete the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire, for the evaluation of sleep quality, and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), for the assessment of daytime sleepiness. Results The total PSQI score was significantly higher in sedentary (total PSQI score = 5.74 ± 2.5) vs. amateur (total PSQI score = 5 ± 2.3) (P 0.05). There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between levels of daytime sleepiness reported in amateur athletes (ESS score = 9.6 ± 4.3), elite athletes (ESS score = 10 ± 3.8), and sedentary individuals (ESS score = 10.4 ± 2.4). Conclusion Athletes experienced a better sleep quality compared to sedentary individuals. However, some athletes can suffer from poor sleep quality, suggesting an urgent need for the implementation of sleep hygiene education. Levels of daytime sleepiness, comparable in athletes and sedentary individuals, indicate higher normal daytime sleepiness. Thus, daily naps could be useful to prevent excessive daytime sleepiness, but future studies on this topic, efficacy, and practicality are needed.