Best Practice Case Studies-Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of the Overtraining Syndrome

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The article discusses the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of overtraining syndrome (OTS), a condition affecting athletes due to imbalanced training and recovery. Jointly presented by the European College of Sport Science and the American College of Sports Medicine, it highlights the complexities of OTS and differentiates it from overreaching. Functional overreaching (FOR) and non-functional overreaching (NFOR) are stages of excessive training stress that can lead to OTS if not managed properly. Symptoms include performance decline, mood disturbances, and fatigue, often with no clear distinction between NFOR and OTS.<br /><br />The paper underscores the lack of a universally accepted diagnostic tool for OTS, necessitating the use of various markers like hormones, psychological tests, and physiological assessments. However, these tests often fail to identify OTS conclusively. The prevention of OTS includes monitoring training loads, ensuring adequate recovery, and maintaining a balanced diet to meet increased energy demands during intense training periods. Coaches are advised to manage athletes' training loads, ensuring variations and sufficient rest.<br /><br />The article notes the need for more research to establish reliable diagnostic criteria and markers for early detection of OTS. Current recommendations focus on preventing OTS through proper periodization of training programs, monitoring physiological and psychological responses, and recognizing other stress factors that exacerbate the condition. Athletes are encouraged to maintain performance logs and undergo regular assessments of their training responses to detect early signs of OTS, ensuring timely intervention and recovery strategies.

Meta Tag

Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, CASE 35

Topic Metabolic/Medical Conditions

Keywords

3rd Edition, CASE 35

3rd Edition

Metabolic/Medical Conditions

overtraining syndrome

athletes

training imbalance

European College of Sport Science

American College of Sports Medicine

functional overreaching

non-functional overreaching

diagnostic tools

training load monitoring

prevention strategies