Sleep & Motor Memory Consolidation
This meta-analysis compared the effect of sleep gain on motor memory consolidation between sleep and wake groups. The mechanisms by which sleep helps to consolidate motor memory are not fully understood, and further research is still needed in this field.
Key Points: Sleep & Motor Memory Consolidation
Several studies show that whole-night and short diurnal sleep yield positive effects on motor tasks.
Longer periods of sleep only show slightly improved effects over shorter "naps".
While positive, there is only a small effect of sleep on motor memory consolidation.
Physiologically, there are five stages of sleep (sleep stages 1-4 and rapid eye movement - REM - sleep).
During REM sleep, biochemical processes in the central nervous system support the consolidation of new neuronal circuits.
Sleep spindle activity is believed to play a role in memory consolidation by facilitating neuronal plasticity.
There is some evidence supporting the claim that implicit motor skills preferentially benefit from sleep, but other studies refute this.
Clinical Pilates in Practice
Include a sleep hygiene assessment when working to facilitate changes in motor control.
→ See this resource.
Gauge your client's level of fatigue and tiredness during your session.
If warranted, encourage napping during the day when working to consolidate motor learning.