After doing some research on Alpha waves, I found the following:
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Individuals who meditate have significantly more alpha wave rythm than those who don’t meditate. [Khare KC et al, A study of electroencephalogram in meditators, Indian J physiol pharmacol.]
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Alpha waves are associated with higher degrees of concentration and relaxation. They’re also correlated with lower cortisol levels. Good for the recovery period.
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Fatigue due to hyperthermia during prolonged exercise in the heat is associated with a significantly elevated alpha/beta ratio. [Nielsen B et al, Brain activity and fatigue during prolonged exercise in the heat, pflugers arch. 2001 apr]
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Fatigue due to hyperthermia seems to be caused by changes in cerebral activity rather than peripheral fatigue (fatigue of the muscles) [Nielsen B, Cerebral changes during exercise in the heat, sports med. 2003]
From these studies I found on Pubmed it seems clear Alpha activity is desirable during the recovery period, but undesirable during the workout, since research suggests it’s correlated with poorer performance, a higher perception of physical exertion, and greater heart rate.