Prevalence of Non-Functional Ovearreaching and Overtraining Syndromes in Athletes

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Prevalence of Non-Functional Ovearreaching and Overtraining Syndromes in Athletes

Journal Title: Medycyna Sportowa - Year 2018, Vol 34, Issue 4

Abstract

Background. Imbalance between training load and body recovery leads to the development of the non-functional overreaching syndrome (NFO) or overtraining syndrome (OTS) and deterioration of athlete’s performance. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of these syndromes in a sample of athletes. Material and methods. 111 males aged 18-35 years, training long distance running, cycling, triathlon, powerlifting, crossfit, bodybuilding and weightlifting minimum 2 years. The medical assessment was combined with history taking on athletic career and performance. Aerobic capacity was assessed by means of ergospirometry – cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) on a mechanical treadmill and anaerobic capacity was measured using Wingate test on a cycle ergometer. The patients with inflammatory conditions, hematological disorders and metabolic disorders were excluded. Anthropometric measurements were taken. Overreaching level and motivation for training were assessed using Profile of Mood State (POMS) questionnaire. The results were next compared with the reference values. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistica program, v.13.0. Results. Based on POMS results and the changes in physical capacity a group of 26 participants was selected (23.4%) with NFO/OTS syndrome symptoms. These were athletes training long distance running, crossfit and bodybuilding within 73 months and those who started in competitions more often than 20 times a year. Statistically significant differences were noted in athletes with NFO/OTS syndromes in mood assessment using POMS questionnaire. Higher values were noted in the following subscales: tension/anxiety, depression and fatigue while lower values were obtained in vigor/ activity subscale. Lower yet statistically insignificant values corresponding to physical anaerobic and anaerobic activity were observed in this group. The amount of sleep and the number of training sessions had no effect on the results. Conclusions. NFO/OTS syndromes are developed in nearly 25% of athletes involved in various sport disciplines, training within about 73 months and starting in competitions 20 times a year on average. POMS questionnaire turned out a useful tool in diagnosing these syndromes.<br/><br/>

Authors and Affiliations

Artur Szewczyk, Ewa Rębowska, Anna Jegier

Keywords

EP ID EP432515
DOI -
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