Athletic Training Practice Exam

To combat the effects of jet lag prior to a competition in a different time zone, what should the athletic trainer recommend?

1. Adjust all training, eating, and sleeping schedules to the local time upon arrival

2. Consume caffeine only when traveling east

3. Reset watches to the new time zone 3 days in advance

4. Have a large breakfast when traveling west

The correct answer is: Adjust all training, eating, and sleeping schedules to the local time upon arrival

Adjusting all training, eating, and sleeping schedules to align with the local time upon arrival is the most effective strategy to combat jet lag. This approach helps the body adapt to the new time zone by gradually syncing the circadian rhythms with the external environment. By shifting the schedule to the local time as soon as possible, athletes can minimize the disruption caused by traveling across time zones, improve their alertness, and enhance performance during the competition. The rationale is rooted in the fact that the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, regulates sleep-wake cycles, hormone release, and other bodily functions. By actively aligning activities with the local time rather than maintaining the old schedule, the body can better adjust to feeling alert when it should be awake and ready for competition. Although the other strategies might have some relevance, they do not address the fundamental need for realigning the body’s internal clock as effectively as adjusting routines to match the local time.