Enhancing Anaerobic Performance in Kickboxers: The Strategic Role of Short-Duration Napping

Abstract

The intricate relationship between sleep and athletic performance has long been a subject of interest in sports science. This study delves into the specific impact of short-duration napping on anaerobic performance parameters in the study of kickboxing, an intense combat sport demanding both physical prowess and strategic acumen. We conducted a controlled investigation with 14 young elite male kickboxers, characterized by an average age of 20.29 ± 0.80 years, a height of 174.48 ± 4.11 cm, body masses of 70.46 ± 7.78 kg, and a body mass index (BMI) of 23.12 ± 2.02 kg/m². The experimental design encompassed three distinct conditions: no napping (N0), a 25-minute nap (N25), and a 45-minute nap (N45). The evaluation focused on several key performance metrics, including countermovement jump (CMJ), mean power, and peak power outputs. Intriguingly, our findings indicated that while CMJ values remained relatively unaffected by the napping conditions, significant variations were observed in both mean and peak power outputs, particularly among participants who napped. These variations suggest that napping, even for short durations, can significantly influence certain anaerobic performance parameters in kickboxers, with a marked improvement in power-related aspects. This research contributes to the expanding body of literature on the role of sleep and rest in athletic performance, specifically highlighting the potential of napping as an effective strategy for enhancing physical capabilities in combat sports. The implications of these findings extend beyond the realm of kickboxing, offering valuable insights and practical applications for athletic training and performance optimization across various sports disciplines where anaerobic capabilities are crucial.