Signs of Fatigue in Youth Athletes

While many youth athletes work year round to improve performance, sometimes the extra reps in skill and strength can result in a negative output. All performance requires an athlete to be sharp, present, and efficient. As soon as we go from training optimally to even slightly overtrained, we have decreased the output and actually have a set back because the athlete now needs to take additional time off to recover physically, mentally, and emotionally. The days of work harder and do more are gone as we have data showing it’s shortcomings in the long term. This will take time for athletes to figure out the optimal work load for them based on the season of their life and sport. Let’s look at four signs of fatigue and how to monitor them so youth athletes can perform better on and off the field. 

Metabolic Fatigue:

• Description: Metabolic fatigue occurs due to the depletion of energy stores within the body. It often arises during prolonged training sessions (lasting an hour or more) when an athlete’s fuel intake is inadequate.
• Monitoring: Keep track of training duration and intensity. Use tools like heart rate monitors to assess exertion levels.If you have a baseline heart both at rest and during activity, you can then better tell when you might be over trained. If you notice your heart elevating faster than normal or staying elevated for a longer period of time then it’s a sure sign of fatigue.
• Addressing: Ensure proper nutrition and hydration. Athletes should consume enough calories to meet their energy demands1.

1. Neurological Fatigue (Peripheral and Central Nervous System):

• Peripheral Fatigue: This affects muscles and the nerves that innervate them.
• Central Nervous System Fatigue: Impacts an athlete’s ability to concentrate and respond quickly.
• Monitoring: Observe changes in coordination, reaction time, and mental focus.At Showtime, we have a baseline of each members grip strength. If there is a a variance then we know that fatigue has set in and we have to adjust or cancel the training session. 
• Addressing: Prioritize adequate rest, quality sleep, and recovery strategies1.

1. Psychological Fatigue:

• Description: Psychological fatigue affects an athlete’s mental state. It may lead to decreased motivation, mood swings, and poor decision-making.
• Monitoring: Pay attention to changes in behavior, attitude, and emotional well-being. If you ever notice your athlete losing interest in their sport, it’s usually a dead give away that fatigue has set in. 
• Addressing: Encourage open communication, provide psychological support, and consider professional counseling if needed1.

1. Environmental and Travel Fatigue:

• Description: Environmental factors (such as extreme weather conditions) and travel can contribute to fatigue.
• Monitoring: Assess how athletes adapt to different environments and travel schedules. Travel takes it out of everyone and youth athletes are no different. Allow time after each travel session for mental and physical recovery. 
• Addressing: Plan travel with adequate rest breaks, manage jet lag, and ensure proper nutrition during travel12.

Remember that addressing fatigue involves a holistic approach, including nutrition, rest, and mental well-being. Supporting youth athletes in managing fatigue is essential for their long-term health and performance.

Nick Showman

Showtime Strength & Performance