Intensified endurance training increases nocturnal proximal skin temperature and sleep latency in male long-distance runners
Eight days of intensified endurance training (209.2 km vs 118.5 km) significantly elevated maximum nocturnal proximal skin temperature (p=0.045), especially during the first 180 minutes after bedtime (p=0.03), and increased sleep latency (8.4 min vs 2.6 min, p=0.003) compared to normal training. The delta skin temperature during sleep was also higher in the intensified training group (p=0.004).
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Intensified endurance training increases nocturnal proximal skin temperature and sleep latency in male long-distance runners The current body of evidence comprises 1 study. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 32/100 (low).
The Claim
Intensified endurance training increases nocturnal proximal skin temperature and sleep latency in male long-distance runners
This conclusion is most relevant to: Male long-distance runners (14 participants).
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Effects of intensified endurance training on nocturnal skin temperature and sleep variables in male long-distance runners: A pilot study. (Physiological reports, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Intensified training increases metabolic heat production
- ▸Elevated core and skin temperature persists into the night
- ▸Higher proximal skin temperature delays heat dissipation
- ▸Delayed sleep initiation (increased sleep latency)
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Male long-distance runners (14 participants)
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Small sample size (n=14) limits generalizability
- ▸Pilot study design with no blinding or randomization details
- ▸Only male runners studied, so findings may not apply to females or other populations
Frequently Asked Questions
Does intensified training affect overall sleep quality?▼
The study found that sleep latency increased, but overall sleep quantity (total sleep time, efficiency) was not substantially impaired.
Why does intensified training increase skin temperature at night?▼
Increased training volume likely elevates metabolic heat production, which persists into the night, raising proximal skin temperature and altering thermoregulatory responses.
How long did the skin temperature elevation last?▼
Maximum skin temperature was significantly higher throughout the night, especially during the first 180 minutes after bedtime.
Is this study applicable to female athletes?▼
No, the study only included male long-distance runners, so results may not generalize to females.
References
- 1.Okamoto S, Goto K. “Effects of intensified endurance training on nocturnal skin temperature and sleep variables in male long-distance runners: A pilot study..” Physiological reports, 2026. PMID: 42374861 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.70986