Athletes go through rigorous training every day, which can result in emotional and physical stress. Over time, this untreated and burdening stress can lead to a decrease in performance and spirit. While burnout is generally used to describe tiredness and fatigue, athlete burnout is an actual syndrome that can cost you your entire career.

Immediate help and motivation can help you overcome overwhelming emotions and get back on track. But you can only seek help once you start seeing clear signs of athlete burnout. Here’s are a few symptoms associated with burnout in sportspeople.

Movement coordination symptoms

Over-training can lead to difficulties in the flow of your movements and rhythm. When you start having trouble completing basic routines, you may need to take a breather and evaluate your physical condition. How has your movement coordination been lately? Do you have a hard time exercising your routine? These physical indicators can signify your underlying condition.

Training symptoms

Strength, endurance, power, and speed are crucial factors in performing your best. A significant reduction in any of these elements for a long time can signify burnout. If you can’t rid yourself of feelings of fatigue, have an increased resting heart rate, or experience diminished competitive qualities, these are good indicators that you need help. Other signs of athlete burnout include a need for increased recovery time and struggle to complete work-outs.

Psychological symptoms

The link between physical and psychological symptoms is two-way. Sometimes physical symptoms may lead to feelings of demotivation, mental fatigue, and fog, whereas, during other times, sleep problems and irritability can lead to decreased strength and endurance to perform optimally on the field.

Therefore, it’s vital to address all psychological stressors that may be leading to your burnout. If you’d just been through a major life change, the chances are that your mood swings and sleep issues are caused by that event.

An underlying medical problem can also lead to fatigue and an increased resting heart rate. So, get your medical examinations done and work toward devising a solid and comprehensive recovery plan.

Sky’s the limit

I, Akwasi Frimpong, was born in Ghana and am the first skeleton athlete from the country. Over the years, I’ve managed to win more than a dozen medals in various international events. Here’s a link to my story.

I believe that hard work, dedication, and perseverance can move mountains, and nothing is impossible if you focus on your goal and work toward it.

I am also a motivational speaker and intend to encourage burnt out athletes to overcome their struggles.