The primary aim of this study was to explore the relationship between floatation-restricted environmental stimulation therapy (floatation-REST) and nocturnal cardiovascular physiology and sleep in collegiate athletes. The secondary aim was to describe the perceived changes in soreness, mood, fatigue, energy level, and overall experience after floatation-REST in collegiate athletes. Data included 214 records of nocturnal cardiovascular physiology and sleep collected using an acceptably valid and reliable wearable device (Ōura Ring, Ōura Health, Oulu, Finland) from 97 athletes (52.57% women) on 12 varsity teams, and 2,319 survey responses collected immediately after floatation-REST from 898 athletes (48.88% women) on 36 varsity teams. Nocturnal cardiovascular physiology was assessed through resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and respiration rate, while sleep was summarized using total sleep time, time in bed, and sleep efficiency. The representation of teams was varied, with football and men's and women's swimming heavily represented. Male and female athletes were analyzed separately to prevent overlooking sex-specific physiologic differences. Resting heart rate was significantly lower after floatation-REST than at night immediately before the session in female athletes (p < 0.001, effect size [ES] = −0.223) and male athletes (p < 0.001, ES = −0.186). Heart rate variability and sleep metrics showed no specific changes. In total, 98.7% of athletes reported an overall positive floatation-REST experience, and 85.3% felt better postsession, citing reduced soreness, stress, and fatigue, with improved energy. Thus, although more research is needed, these data provide a positive outlook for the use of this recovery technology in collegiate athletes.

Expertise of athletic trainers aids cadets, deputies in injury prevention and support

Evidence-Based Summary Cold-water immersion is a widely used recovery strategy in soccer, aimed at reducing fatigue and enhancing performance. It involves immersing the body in water at 10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F) for 10-15 minutes, typically within an hour post-training or match. Research supports cold-water immersion's effectiveness in improving jump performance and reducing perceived fatigue and soreness in soccer players, though its effects on exercise-induced muscle damage markers like creatine kinase are inconsistent. The mechanisms behind cold-water immersion 's benefits are thought to include reducing inflammation, vasoconstriction, pain relief, psychological effects, and hydrostatic pressure. For optimal recovery, cold-water immersion should be applied immediately after training or matches.