The role of coaches and sports psychologists in the management of staleness and burnout among university athletes

Abstract

This paper examined the role of coaches and sports psychologists in management of staleness and burn out among university athletes. Burn out which is characterized by a range of psychological, physical and behavioural symptoms refers to a state of emotional exhaustion which results from pressures on the athlete which have built up over an extended period of time. Staleness is regarded as a consequence of the failure to adapt to rigorous training that many athletes must undo in order to achieve their athletic potential. Psychological symptoms associated with staleness and burn out were highlighted among which are sleep disturbances, decreased self esteem, fatigue anxiety, and confusion. Intervention strategies for staleness and burn out were also mentioned. The paper concluded that coaches and sports psychologists should recognize the signs of staleness and overtraining to prevent burn out.

African Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology and Sport Facilitation Vol. 6 2004: 77-80