Overtraining can be detrimental to a child’s performance on the field, in the classroom, and overall health. Here are some signs to look for if you suspect your child isn’t being completely honest about their training regimen.

1. Exhaustion

Younger children, especially, should have more than enough energy to get through a day of school and sports without being completely knocked out. While some days will be harder than others, consistent exhaustion is a key sign of overtraining. Outside of sports, overworking kids in general can be detrimental, especially considering that their diet may not be ideal. Ensure that your child’s life is balanced, allowing them plenty of free time to enjoy.

2. Constant Stress-Related Injuries

Stress-related injuries are common in endurance sports and often indicate overtraining or improper recovery. If your child always has some sort of minor ailment, they might need to back off their current training routine and rework it. Private coaching can be incredibly useful in designing a good training program. To find some of the best private coaches in your area, head to Athletes Untapped.

3. Lack of Enjoyment in the Sport

A sudden lack of enjoyment in a sport, particularly if they enjoyed it before, can be a symptom of overtraining. This could be due to a genuine change of heart, but if combined with exhaustion or stress injuries, it is more than likely due to overtraining. Coaching changes can also lead to overtraining, as a new coach may implement a more rigorous program that harms the growth of their athletes.

Addressing Overtraining

Overtraining is a common problem. Each individual has their limits, and a good coach can recognize where those are. However, sometimes overtraining happens, and it’s best to talk to your child and determine what is causing their exhaustion or lack of enjoyment in the game. Here are some steps to take:

• Communicate: Have an open conversation with your child about their training routine and how they feel physically and mentally.
• Adjust Training: Reevaluate and adjust the training schedule to ensure it includes proper rest and recovery time.
• Seek Professional Guidance: Consider hiring a private coach to design a balanced training program tailored to your child’s needs.

Recognizing the signs of overtraining is crucial to protecting your child’s health and ensuring they continue to enjoy their sport. By monitoring for exhaustion, stress-related injuries, and changes in enjoyment, you can help maintain a balanced training regimen. If needed, seek additional support from private coaches at Athletes Untapped to provide personalized training that prevents overtraining.