The effect of time of day and menstrual cycle on physical performance and psychological responses in elite female Tunisian volleyball players

• DOI: 10.1186/s13102-025-01117-2
• Publication Date: 2025-04-03T21:55:57Z
• Authors: Meher Seddik; Mohamed Mansour B...; Halil İbrahim Ceylan; Jaouher Hamaidi; Hatem Ghouili; Hamdi Chtourou; Noomen Guelmami; Ismail Dergaa; Raul Ioan Muntean; Nizar Souissi
• Keywords: Elite; Elite Athletes

The influence of circadian rhythms and menstrual cycle phases on athletic performance psychological responses is critical for optimizing training competition strategies female athletes. This study aimed to investigate the effects time day physical elite Tunisian volleyball players. Thirteen players were assessed during three different their (menstrual, follicular, luteal) at two times (morning evening). Physical was evaluated using Modified Agility Test (MAT), Reactive (RAT), Repeated Sprint Ability (RSA) Test. Psychological measured Profile Mood States (POMS), Hooper's Questionnaire, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Vis-Morgen Spiegel Questionnaire. Significant cycle, day, performance, cognitive function, mood, sleep parameters found. including Countermovement Jump (CMJ), T-test (MAT) test higher in afternoon than morning across all (CMJ: p < 0.001, η² = 0.836; MAT: 0.777; RAT: 0.859). After competition, decreased significantly, especially follicular luteal phases. As by Stroop test, function showed significant diurnal (p 0.910), with pre-competition being better afternoon. disturbances (POMS) increased after phase 0.961). significantly influenced fatigue (Hooper score: 0.754) poorer quality (PSQI: 0.627) morning, competition. Our results suggest that aligning high-intensity competitions peaks may enhance Recovery workload adjustments should account phases, particularly reducing demands mitigate mood disruptions. Integrating timing monitoring offers a practical, evidence-based approach optimize athlete readiness resilience.