Research

Journal of Competitive Somnolence · Vol. 1, Issue 1

The Aerodynamics of Pillow Selection: A Quantitative Analysis of Surface Geometry, Loft Height, and Onset Latency in Sprint Nap Competition

M. Holloway, K. Lindqvist, F. Okonkwo · Received January 2026 · Accepted March 2026

This study examines the relationship between pillow geometry and sleep onset latency in elite Sprint Nap competitors across three sanctioned events (n=47). We hypothesized that loft height greater than 10 cm would correlate negatively with onset speed due to cervical misalignment; our findings partially support this hypothesis, with significant individual variation suggesting that pillow selection is more strongly correlated with training history than with any universal geometric optimum.

Key findings: Competitors with 5+ years elite experience demonstrated no significant performance variation across pillow loft heights 7–14 cm. Novice competitors showed a statistically significant 43-second mean onset delay when pillow loft exceeded 12 cm. The "familiar pillow advantage" is confirmed as a real and measurable phenomenon. We recommend that the ICN Rules Committee reconsider the current restriction on competitor-supplied pillows.

Full text available to ICN members. Abstract available below.

ICN Working Paper Series · WP-2026-03

Toward a Unified Scoring Model for Marathon Nap Maintenance: Limitations of Current Biometric Thresholds and Proposed Revisions

Y. Takahashi, C. Beaumont-Reyes · March 2026 · Under review

Current ICN Marathon Nap scoring relies on Stage 2 sleep as the minimum depth threshold for Maintenance scoring. This working paper argues that this threshold is insufficiently granular to distinguish elite-level performance and proposes a revised 5-point depth scale incorporating slow-wave sleep duration as a weighted scoring component. Preliminary data from 12 sanctioned Marathon events is presented in support of the revision.

Working paper. Not yet peer-reviewed. Comments welcome via the Institute.

Journal of Competitive Somnolence · Vol. 1, Issue 2 (Forthcoming)

Relay Nap Handoff Mechanics: A Kinematic Study of Approved Signal Methods and Their Effect on Next-Competitor Onset Latency

The Lund Collective, K. Lindqvist · Submitted February 2026

The first systematic study of Relay Nap handoff mechanics. We compare the three approved signal methods (arm placement, proximity warming, ICN Signal Card) across 6 elite Relay teams and measure their effect on the receiving competitor's onset latency. Proximity warming shows a 28-second mean advantage over the Signal Card method; arm placement results are inconclusive and may be referee-dependent. Implications for rule revision are discussed.

Accepted pending minor revisions. Expected publication: Q2 2026.

Biomechanics of Onset

Multi-year study of the physiological precursors to rapid sleep onset in elite competitors. Seeking partner institutions and additional subjects.

Recovery Quality Index

Developing a standardized Recovery Quality Index to replace current subjective grogginess assessment. Target: adoption in Edition 4.0 of the ruleset.

Longitudinal Athlete Study

Tracking performance trajectories of 30 competitive nappers over a 5-year period. Year 2 data collection ongoing.