What is the Origin of Phase Advance Training?

This term is central to chronotherapy and sleep medicine, specifically describing one direction of circadian phase shift. "Phase advance" is the technical term for moving the clock earlier in the 24-hour cycle. "Training" emphasizes the structured, repetitive nature of the intervention required to effect a stable and enduring biological change in the body's rhythm.

What is the Mechanism of Phase Advance Training?

The primary mechanism involves exposing the eyes to bright light shortly after the nadir of the core body temperature curve, which typically occurs in the late night or early morning. This powerful light signal, transmitted to the SCN, inhibits melatonin secretion and shifts the clock earlier. Consistent early meal timing also acts as a potent zeitgeber for peripheral clocks, reinforcing the overall systemic phase advance.

Phase Advance Training ∞ Area

Phase Advance Training

Meaning

A systematic chronobiological strategy involving the intentional shifting of an individual’s circadian rhythm to an earlier time, essentially making them a ‘morning person’ or correcting a delayed sleep phase disorder. This training is accomplished by precisely timing zeitgebers like bright light exposure and the consumption of meals. Clinically, it is employed to synchronize an individual’s internal clock with an earlier required wake time, thereby improving daytime alertness and hormonal rhythm alignment.