Statement of Significance
muscle soreness, fatigue
This study explored the impact of a daytime nap on afternoon performance and perceptual measures of well-being in elite rugby union athletes. Findings highlighted that utilizing a daytime nap of less than 1 hour improved 6-second peak power performance, lowered athletes’ perception of exertion, levels of fatigue, and general muscle soreness in the afternoon compared to when athletes did not take a daytime nap. The findings suggest that using a daytime nap may support recovery between training sessions on the same day and may provide positive effects on afternoon performance amongst elite rugby union athletes.