Cognitive Functions in Women's National Sitting Volleyball Players

Quick decision-making, attention, and executive control are of critical importance in elite sports performance, and these neurocognitive functions are highly dependent on high-quality sleep. While the literature generally focuses on athletes without physical disabilities, evidence regarding sleep optimization for Paralympic athletes-who often experience specific physiological challenges such as chronic pain or spasticity-is limited. This research was conducted during the competition preparation period with athletes from the Turkish Women's National Sitting Volleyball Team (n=8). The study utilized a single-group pre-test/post-test experimental design, applying a specific sleep hygiene intervention consisting of 13 components. The effectiveness of the intervention was systematically analyzed using objective cognitive tests evaluating processing speed, attention, and executive control (Symbol Digit Modalities Test and Stroop Test), alongside objective sleep parameters obtained via wearable technology (Xiaomi Mi Band 7).

• Multidimensional Sleep Hygiene Optimization Protocol (Behavioral): This protocol includes the following 13 rules, with participants' compliance monitored daily via a checklist over 5 working days: (1) Ceasing the use of electronic devices 1 hour before sleep, (2) Avoiding vigorous exercise before sleep, (3) Optimizing room temperature between 18-22°C, (4) Turning off all light-emitting devices, (5) Using a sleep mask, (6) Not using the bedroom for work purposes during the day, (7) Avoiding unhealthy snacks before sleep, (8) Cutting off caffeine intake at least 3 hours before sleep, (9) Engaging in adequate daily exercise, (10) Practicing pre-sleep stress management techniques, (11) Ensuring a quiet sleep environment, (12) Establishing a personalized pre-sleep routine (e.g., brushing teeth), and (13) Not taking daytime naps.

Primary outcomes

• Objective Cognitive Performance Analysis using the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and Stroop Test (TBAG Form) [Baseline (Day 0), Mid-intervention (Day 3), and immediately after the 5-day intervention (Day 8)]: Visual scanning and psychomotor speed (total substitutions, correct substitutions, number of errors) were recorded using the SDMT. Executive functions, cognitive flexibility, and response inhibition (task completion times in seconds, number of spontaneous corrections, and number of errors) were recorded using the Stroop Test. A decrease in completion times and an increase in accuracy rates indicate improved cognitive performance.

Sex: Female, ages: 18 Years to any, accepts healthy volunteers

Inclusion Criteria:

* ≥ 18 years of age
* Active national sitting volleyball team member
* ≥ 1 year of national team experience
* ≥ 20 hours of weekly training

Exclusion Criteria:

* Non-compliance with the team camp program
* Major neurological diagnosis

• Ahmet Sansi, Study director, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University Sport Science Faculty
• Semih KARAMAN, PhD (c), Principal investigator, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University Sport Science Faculty