04/22/2026
Are we unknowingly creating a culture in youth sport that encourages sports burnout??
Burnout lives right on that line between a mental performance issue and a mental health issue. When a sport begins to add pressure and stress instead of acting as an escape, that's when the progression to sports burnout begins. Here's what's currently happening that's causing athletes to burnout more often and at younger ages than ever:
*Professionalization of Youth Sport*
Kids are specializing at younger ages. And even if they are playing multiple sports, each sport is taking up multiple seasons. Between practices, pay-for-play extra games, and training sessions, is there really any time for true rest?
*Win or Fail Mentality*
Maybe this is only happening subconsciously for many of us, but young athletes are tying their own value to how well they do in sport because of consistent messages they receive.
*Burnout as Self-Protection*
I believe the brain is acting in self-protection when burnout occurs. The motivation has turned from internally focused to externally focused. The activity that was once loved is now despised. The athlete starts to wonder how much less stress they would have if they were to give it up. So, naturally, they start to feel less motivation to improve and withdraw. Almost like the mind is creating a pros and cons list of continuing to put the work in.
Here are a few simple ways to combat sports burnout:
*Switch it up*
Play multiple sports if you can or would like to, go on vacation, have a few hobbies outside of your sport. Your high schooler may be just fine with the grind when things are going well, but in college (when the real difficulties start) they will not know how to take a real break.
*Give them a reasonable choice*
Young athletes may not always make the right choice between resting and working, but it will be much more meaningful if they are responsible for their own improvement. If they are putting too much into their sport, they will know it and you should listen. Even if they don't want to tell you, pay attention to the signs.
*Keep a sense of purpose*
You know that feeling when you play sports as a kid? Nothing but fun and pure freedom. Do your best to help your kids hold onto that feeling, because many athletes at later stages lose it, and it is certainly hard to get it back. The irony is that those who still find fun in their sport perform just as well as those who see it as a job. There's plenty of proof out there.
Comment with your thoughts/experiences on sports burnout! Or visit mtpeakperformance.com for more information on individual meetings, team meetings, or online courses!
