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Jet Lag & Travel Strategies for Athletes

Writer's picture: Randon Hall, MD, MBA, CAQRandon Hall, MD, MBA, CAQ

Updated: Sep 28, 2024

Overview: Jet Lag & Travel


This lesson dives into how sleep can be optimized for performance and recovery in athletes.


Learning Objectives


By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:


  1. Implement strategies to manage travel fatigue and jet lag.


Comprehensive Summary Travel Considerations


Planning:

  • Decrease training load before travel to reduce fatigue and injury risk.

  • Consider sleep banking strategies.


Adjusting Sleep Patterns:

  • Eastward travel: Gradually wake up earlier before travel.

  • Westward travel: Gradually go to sleep later and wake up later before travel.


Destination Strategies:

  • Adjust sleep schedule to the local time zone upon arrival.

  • Maximize natural sunlight exposure in the morning.

  • Minimize light exposure in the evening.


Hotel Accommodations:

  • Choose quiet locations away from noise and disruptions.

  • Utilize blackout curtains or eye masks to minimize light exposure.

  • Consider using earplugs or white noise machines to block out sound.


Key Takeaways:


Developing a strategic sleep plan that incorporates napping, sleep banking, and travel adjustments is crucial for optimizing athletic performance and recovery.




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© 2023 by Randon Hall, MD

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