Medicine

Sleep deprivation alters how you run, increasing injury risk

How the science connects

BiomechanicsSleep deprivationSports injuries

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Research has identified measurable changes in running biomechanics when individuals are sleep-deprived. These alterations in running style provide new insights into the mechanisms by which insufficient sleep may increase injury risk among runners. The study quantifies specific gait modifications that occur as a consequence of inadequate rest.


Understanding how sleep deprivation affects running mechanics could help athletes and recreational runners better manage training schedules and injury prevention strategies. This research may inform recommendations about rest requirements for optimal performance and safety in running activities.


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Biomechanics 16 articles Explore Concept → Sleep deprivation Concept coming soon Sports injuries Concept coming soon

There are measurable changes in the way we run when we are short of sleep, which give us a clearer picture of how a lack of shut-eye affects our risk of injury

Source: Your running style changes when you’re short of sleep