Effects of a Single Bout of Exercise on Memory and Attention Following One Night of Sleep Loss: Results of a Randomised Controlled Pilot Study

Abstract

\n BackgroundSleep-loss is a severe problem in night-shift workers. It causes fatigue and a decrease in awareness that may be counter-acted by exercise. This randomised controlled study in 22 university students investigated the effects of exercise on cognitive and physical performance following sleep deprivation. MethodsWe were comparing a single bout of a 20-minutes circuit training to control in an experimental setting of overnight sleep loss. Outcomes included memory, cognitive tasks, and physical parameters. The occurrence of false memories was considered being the main outcome.ResultsExercise did not exert significant effects on false memories (p = 0.456). We could detect a trend to significanxe (p < 0.01) assessing cognitive dimensions, i.e. selective and sustained attention, and visual scanning speed. This revealed strong effects of exercise on attention (p = 0.091; Cohen’s d = 0.76; ∆14%), cognitive performance, performance speed, and perceived sleepiness (p = 0.008; d = 0.60; ∆2.4 cmVAS). ConclusionsThis study failed to show effects of exercise on memory function. Still, medium to strong effects on attention and consciousness can be considered clinically relevant. The results of this study encourage further research to determine its practicability and meaningfulness among night-shift workers.Trial registrationGerman Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00010655, registered 21. June 2016.