Athlete burnout is not often discussed, yet it is accurate and happens much more frequently than you might think. As with any case of burnout, the signs of athlete burnout are not always apparent until it’s too late.
If you are feeling a little less motivated than usual or have noticed physical or mental changes that are affecting your performance, you could be already experiencing burnout like many other athletes, both professional and amateur.
Discover how to recognize athlete burnout and regain your motivation, not to mention your passion, right here.
What are the common signs of athlete burnout?
Although everyone’s experience with athlete burnout differs, there are some common signs you may want to look out for. These include:
- Feelings of exhaustion and energy depletion
- Feeling disconnected from your emotions
- An increase in cynicism, especially regarding your sport
- No sense of accomplishment after a training session or event
- Feeling frustrated during training or competing
- Not wanting to set any goals for the future
- An inability to be satisfied with a race result
What causes athlete burnout?
Some causes of athlete burnout are the same as any other type of burnout. For example, taking on too much or not taking enough time to relax. Additionally, athletes may experience burnout for one or more of the following reasons:
- Returning to training too quickly after a race
- Overtraining
- Not getting enough sleep
- Not being able to ask others for help
- Neglecting other hobbies and interests
- Falling short of race goals
- Forgetting why they started racing in the first place
- Not feeling in control of their bodies
- Not feeling valued for their successes
Along with the emotional symptoms of athlete burnout, many people also experience physical symptoms such as headaches, aches and pains, fatigue, and compromised immune systems.
How to recover from athlete burnout
- Mix up your training
If you tend to stick to the same training schedule day in and day out, this could be the cause of your burnout. Seek out new and creative ways to train and schedule workouts, as this will prevent you from getting bored and also improve your overall performance. For example, why not sign up for one of the many Macmillan charity bike rides that take place up and down the country?
- Be aware of your triggers
Everyone has things in their lives that trigger stress. This could be a demanding job, a lack of time for yourself or even the imminent arrival of a big race. By identifying your triggers, you will be in a better position to manage your body’s response to stressful situations.
- Take a break
As an athlete, it is vital that you know when to take a break, as a failure to do so can put both your mind and body under pressure. This could be taking a break from training altogether or taking time off from your main event to explore other types of sports or activities.
- Prioritize what is important
Think about what is most important in your life, both in terms of your chosen sport and your life in general. For example, if you have been neglecting your family to train, you may find spending more time with them will help you regain your energy as an athlete.
- Seek out support
Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help if you are struggling with feelings of burnout as an athlete. It is not something to be ashamed of and happens to most athletes at some point in their careers.
Author Bio:
Bex Gawne
Bex studied Creative Writing at University, before moving into the publishing and digital marketing industry around ten years ago. She has produced work for a range of niches but loves anything to do with self-improvement and wellbeing. When she’s not curled up with her favorite novels, she enjoys long walks with her over-excited beagle.