Physical Exertion Partially Mitigates Task-Switching Deficits from Sleep Loss: Implications for Firefighters

Objective The aim of the study is to investigate effects of physical exertion on cognitive deficits from sleep loss under conditions that mimic a firefighting scenario. Methods Twenty-four male participants completed a crossover study design with 3 conditions: total sleep deprivation, sleep disruption (three 60-minute awakenings), and rested control. Participants then completed 50 minutes of a physical exertion task involving treadmill exercise in a heated room while wearing firefighter protective clothing. Vigilant attention and task-switching performance were assessed pre- and post-sleep manipulation and pre- and post-physical exertion. Vigilant attention was also assessed mid-physical exertion. Results Total sleep deprivation and sleep disruption increased attentional lapses and task-switching RT. Total sleep deprivation additionally reduced task-switching accuracy. Performance after physical exertion improved only for task-switching RT after total sleep deprivation. Conclusions Physical exertion selectively mitigated task-switching RT deficits from the most severe sleep loss condition, total sleep deprivation.