Physical activity, sleep and stress in top athletes and controls - a longitudinal study

The aim of the study is to examine changes in sleep, circadian rhythm, mood and stress in students who attend a high school for top athletes compared to students who attend regular high schools. Based on previous studies we assume that young top athletes have good sleep habits. However, whether the good sleep habits is a result of the intensity in the physical activity, physical activity early in the morning or other factors that may affect sleep habits remain unclear. A longitudinal design with start of the data collection before the athletes begin on the high school, may give answers to such questions. The study will also investigate whether sleep and circadian preferences can predict the occurrence of injuries and dropouts from sports at a high level.