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Jet lag and air travel: implications for performance
Thomas Reilly1, Jim Waterhouse, Ben Edwards
1Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Henry Cotton Campus, 15-21 Webster Street, Liverpool L3 2ET, England. T.P.Reilly@livjm.ac.uk
Clinics in Sports Medicine
|May 17, 2005
Summary
This review explains travel stress in athletes, focusing on jet lag and its impact on performance. It discusses strategies to mitigate these effects for athletes traveling long distances.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Chronobiology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Athletes undertaking long-haul travel experience significant stress.
- Jet lag, a disruption of the circadian system, is a primary concern.
- This stress can negatively impact athletic performance and overall health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of travel stress and jet lag on athletes.
- To outline the circadian system and its disruption.
- To discuss strategies for mitigating adverse effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on travel stress and jet lag in athletes.
- Explanation of circadian rhythm regulation and disruption.
- Summary of behavioral and pharmacological interventions.
Main Results:
- Disturbances to the circadian system cause jet lag, affecting athletes.
- Jet lag has detrimental consequences for exercise performance and health.
- Various behavioral and pharmacological strategies can help manage jet lag.
Conclusions:
- Understanding circadian system disturbances is crucial for athletes.
- Proactive management strategies are essential for mitigating travel stress.
- Support systems for athletes, including coaches and mentors, play a vital role.