Existing studies demonstrate no performance impairment when sexual activity occurs ≥10- to 12-hour precompetition. Sleep quality improvements require further investigation. Psychological expectations and cultural contexts appear influential based on athlete surveys. Critical gaps include female underrepresentation (99% male samples), age diversity (studies limited to 20-40 y), and ethnic homogeneity. Rigorous investigations with diverse populations remain necessary to establish evidence-based practice guidelines.
Dhahbi et al. (Thu,) studied this question.