Actigraphy-Based Sleep Parameters in Wheelchair Basketball Athletes: Influence of Training and Competition Load

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to analyze the actigraphy-based sleep parameters in wheelchair basketball (WB) athletes during the 3 weeks leading up to the playoffs, the week of playoffs, and the week after playoffs. Secondarily, the relationship between training load, sleep, and recovery was evaluated. Methods During 5 consecutive weeks, 10 male elite WB athletes wore a triaxial accelerometer. The session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) and athletes' quality of recovery were also measured. Results There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in any of the studied parameters between the 3 weeks leading up to the playoffs, the week of playoffs, and the week after playoffs. No significant relationship between training load, sleep parameters, and recovery values was detected. Discussion The WB competition does not affect sleep quantity and quality.

Keywords

• exercise actigraphy
• spinal cord injuries
• para-athletes
• sports for persons with disabilities