Vnitr Lek 2026, 72(5):306-310 | DOI: 10.36290/vnl.2026.057

Sleep and athletic performance

Markéta Sovová, Eliška Sovová
Klinika tělovýchovného lékařství a kardiovaskulární rehabilitace LF a FN Olomouc

Sleep is a key biological process essential for optimal physical and mental functioning and plays a crucial role in recovery, adaptation to stress, and athletic performance. This review article focuses on the physiology of sleep in athletes, its impact on performance, the consequences of sleep deprivation, and the importance of circadian rhythms. Adequate sleep duration and quality support muscle recovery, hormonal balance, and cognitive function, while sleep deprivation leads to impaired physical and mental performance, increased fatigue, and a higher risk of injury.

Keywords: sleep, athlete, athletic performance.

Accepted: August 20, 2026; Published: August 27, 2026  Show citation

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Sovová M, Sovová E. Sleep and athletic performance. Vnitr Lek. 2026;72(5):306-310. doi: 10.36290/vnl.2026.057.
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