Circadian Advantages in Elite Athletes

Purpose of Review: This review discusses the opportunities and challenges of training and competing “around the clock.” Recent Findings: This review focuses on three key areas of study to include: (1) diurnal variation in biologically-driven (circadian-dependent) energy utilization required for aerobic and anaerobic endurance; (2) chronotype and its relationship to athletic performance; and (3) leveraging circadian-driven processes to win “around the clock” and the use of fatigue countermeasures when game time does not align with predicted peaks in athletic performance. Summary: Thus, a full-scope understanding of circadian-driven substrates and mechanisms can help to optimize performance. All the research presented is thematically based on case studies and actual performance-related issues from professional athletes (quoted throughout the text).