Arrr! The scurvy lads and lasses be abandonin' the sportin' life, for they be sufferin' from burnout and overtrainin', so says the latest report!
2024-02-03
Arrr! With nearabouts 70% of wee lads and lasses abandonin' the organized sports ship afore reachin' the ripe age o' 13, as per the American Academy of Pediatrics, wise folks be sharin' their thoughts on why this be happenin'!
With 70% of teenagers and children dropping out of organized sports by age 13, experts are discussing the potential reasons for early burnout. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a report called "Overuse Injuries, Overtraining, and Burnout in Young Athletes," which highlights the increasing cases of burnout and stress injuries in young athletes. One pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Dr. James Barsi, emphasized the need for parents and coaches to be aware of burnout. A high school football player who also plays travel baseball shared that he has seen burnout among his peers due to the pressure of trying to be the best athlete. The report suggests that overscheduling and excessive training can contribute to burnout and impact a young athlete's well-being and quality of life. Dr. Kristin Hopkins, director of the Women's Sports Medicine Center at Stony Brook Medicine, commented on the lack of off-season in today's sports landscape, putting young athletes at risk for burnout and injuries. Overuse injuries occur when the body is exposed to repetitive stress without enough recovery time, leading to cumulative micro-trauma. The AAP recommends incorporating rest days and stretching in workout regimens and listening to one's body. Practices like mindfulness and time away from sports can also help prevent burnout and injuries. Parents are advised to monitor their children's sport participation and avoid excessive hours. The AAP report provides recommendations for clinicians and suggests promoting skill development, avoiding overtraining and overscheduling, and fostering positive experiences in athletics. If an athlete shows signs of burnout or overtraining, it is important to consult with a mental health professional if needed.