Examining the effects of strength training with load progression on sleep parameters in university students

Abstract Methods Seventeen university students (11 girls), 18–21 years old, were randomly divided into two groups: strength training group (ST,n = 12) and control group (CG,n = 5). Anthropometric and body composition measures, one-repetition maximum test, and sleep parameters (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI], insomnia (Insomnia Severity questionnaire), daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale [ESS]), and chronotype were evaluated pre and post-intervention. Training consisted of 60 min·d− 1 (2 times/week, for 4-weeks), with 3 sets of 10–12 repetitions, and a 1-minute rest interval between sets and exercises. Results The results through a 2 × 2 (time×groups) repeated measures analysis variance demonstrated a significant time effect that improves lower limb performance (F = 11.82;p = < 0.01), with a significant interaction (F = 6.07;p = 0.05), and upper limb performance (F = 3.30;p = 0.025), and there was a significant time effect on the chronotype (F = 4.75;p < 0.05). Individual analyses in ST group, ~ 58.3% presented a reduction in the PSQI score; ~25% no change, and ~ 16. 6% showed an increased score. For the ESS, ~ 25% showed a reduction, ~ 58.3% no change, and ~ 16.6% an increase. In sleep efficiency, ~ 25% increase; ~41.6% a reduction, and ~ 33.3% had no change. Conclusion A short-term strength-training program with an increase in weekly load for four weeks is not able to modulate sleep quality, duration, efficiency, daytime sleepiness, or insomnia, independent of intensity, but, had influenced the chronotype.