Former director of the Sports Innovation and Technology Centre and sports science senior lecturer Hadafi Fitri Latip said burnout does not occur suddenly; rather, it progresses through several stages, often signalled by early symptoms.
Warning signs include prolonged tiredness, sleep disturbances, frequent illness or injury, depression, social withdrawal, emotional stress, and a decline in performance.
While these apply to the public at large, Hadafi was commenting on burnout in athletes who, upon exhibiting signs, require early intervention to prevent further harm to their performance and well-being.
According to Hadafi, sports science has proven that training without adequate recovery can lead to long-term negative effects.
“Effective training is not only about working hard – it is also about doing it systematically and progressively through scientific methods such as periodisation (following a strategic and structured training plan), active recovery (sports massage, hydrotherapy, cryotherapy and other methods), and a balanced diet that provides sufficient nutrition.
“If these elements are ignored, athletes may not only fall short of their potential but also face chronic injuries, as a poorly nourished body is more prone to damage.”
He noted that athletes suffering from burnout can still recover by incorporating variety into their training, following structured schedules, and receiving strong support from coaches, parents, and sports stakeholders.
They must also be kind to themselves, Hadafi said, adding: “Many athletes who have gone through burnout managed to bounce back and return to their best. With sufficient recovery and balanced training, some have even become champions.”
Meanwhile, national athletics coach Manshahar Abdul Jalil cautioned that highly specific training from a very young age, or early specialisation, could lead to both mental and physical exhaustion as well as long-term injury risks.
He suggested that Malaysia learn from developed countries such as Sweden and Germany, which prioritise fun and learning in sports development instead of pushing for early success.
“In Sweden, for example, competitions for athletes under 10 years old do not focus on winning but on enjoyment, teamwork and building basic skills.
“Children should first experience the joy of sports before we shape them into elite athletes. In Malaysia, however, many are already put into serious training as early as age seven or eight.
“When pressure comes too early, they lose interest before reaching their full potential,” he said.