Post-intense exercise sleep concerns in weightlifters: A pilot study

Abstract

Background: Weightlifting is a power and dynamic strength game. Performance of weightlifters during competition depends on absolute and relative power output achieved by them. To enhance power and strength in weightlifters, training programmes have frequent high-intensity exercise sessions. On an informal interaction with the sportspersons, they often complain of problems after intense training. There was a felt need to analyse the problems they perceive after intense training. Method: A feedback form was developed after brainstorming with coaches and sports medicine physicians of a sports institute. Thirty-six male weightlifters aged 19.78 ± 4.71 yrs (mean ± standard deviation) of an institute participated after obtaining informed consent. The feedback form was collected and analysed. Result: After an intense exercise, participants reported complaints such as increased fatigue (n ¼ 27), sleep problems (n ¼ 26), restlessness (n ¼ 18) and decreased appetite (n ¼ 12). Of the sleep problems, 69.4% (n ¼ 25 out of 36) noticed worsening of sleep, 50% (n ¼ 18) noticed sleep was light after intense training, 58.3% (n ¼ 21) felt difficulty in falling asleep, 47.2% (n ¼ 7) complained of frequent waking up during sleep at night and 77.8% (n ¼ 28) felt sleepy after waking up. Conclusion: Intense training encounters certain problems such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, restlessness and decreased appetite.