It is quite normal for most people to experience tiredness and fatigue at some stage. Likely causes are lifestyle, stress-related or quite simply due to a lack of quality sleep. General tiredness and feelings of ‘acute’ fatigue are also common for athletes when there is an increase in the amount or intensity of training. This usually disappears as the body adapts to the new workload provided this is supported with adequate nutrition. If training loads are not supported with adequate nutrition, an athlete may experience low energy availability (LEA). This occurs when an individual does not match their energy intake to the demands of training and their lifestyle requirements, leaving inadequate energy to support health and normal bodily functions.

For more information download the ‘Maximising Energy & Fighting Fatigue in your Athletes’ factsheet.