Preventing Burnout in Young Athletes, with Mark Rieger, M.D., FAAOS

Mark Rieger, M.D., FAAOS

Credit: Atlantic Health System

Burnout is a growing concern for young athletes, affecting their physical health, mental well-being and long-term enjoyment of sports. In an interview with The Educated Patient, Mark Rieger, M.D., FAAOS, pediatric orthopedic surgeon and founding partner of The Pediatric Orthopedic Center, discusses how to recognize, prevent and address burnout in school-aged athletes. From balancing training with recovery to understanding the risks of early specialization, Rieger shares expert advice on keeping young athletes healthy and injury-free.

What are the most common signs and symptoms of burnout in young athletes?

Mark Rieger, M.D., FAAOS: Burnout in young athletes often manifests as both physical and emotional exhaustion. Common signs include chronic fatigue, persistent muscle soreness and decreased performance despite continued training. Athletes may also lose enthusiasm for their sport or experience increased irritability, anxiety or even symptoms of depression. If a child starts dreading practices or avoiding competition, it could be a sign of burnout.

How can parents and coaches differentiate between normal fatigue and actual burnout?

MR: Normal fatigue is temporary and typically resolves with rest, proper hydration and balanced nutrition. Burnout, however, is a prolonged state of exhaustion that doesn’t improve with standard recovery periods. If a young athlete consistently complains of pain or fatigue, dreads going to practice or struggles to focus in school, it may signal the need for a structured break from training. Paying attention to proper equipment, stretching and gradually building strength can help prevent fatigue from escalating into burnout.

Are certain sports more likely to contribute to burnout than others?

MR: Yes, sports that require year-round training and repetitive motions — such as baseball, swimming, gymnastics and distance running — have higher rates of burnout. Athletes who specialize too early without cross-training or breaks are particularly at risk. To reduce burnout risk, it’s essential to consider the athlete’s physical needs, ensure a gradual approach to training and encourage a well-rounded fitness routine.

What steps can parents take to help prevent burnout in their children who play sports?

MR: Parents should encourage balance and allow time for recovery. This means ensuring their child has an off-season, promoting cross-training and setting realistic expectations for performance. Maintaining open communication is crucial so that young athletes feel comfortable discussing stress or fatigue before it escalates into burnout. Parents can also help prevent overuse injuries by focusing on proper equipment, safe surfaces and maintaining healthy eating habits.

How does burnout affect an athlete’s physical health and risk of injury?

MR: Burnout increases the risk of overuse injuries, such as stress fractures, tendonitis and muscle strains. When athletes push through fatigue, they often compensate with improper movement patterns, which can lead to more serious injuries. Additionally, chronic stress from burnout weakens the immune system, making athletes more susceptible to illness. Proper training, rest and conditioning are essential to maintaining physical health and avoiding unnecessary strain.

How can young athletes maintain a healthy balance between school, social life and sports?

MR: Time management is key. Young athletes should prioritize sleep, nutrition and recovery just as much as training. Encouraging them to have interests outside of sports — whether through friendships, hobbies or simply mental breaks from competition — can prevent burnout. Coaches and parents should recognize that school-aged athletes need a well-rounded lifestyle to thrive, and helping athletes balance their schedules ensures sustainable success in both sports and life.

Is there anything else you would like our audience to know?

MR: It’s important for parents and coaches to understand that the ultimate goal of youth sports should be to develop lifelong healthy habits and a love for movement. Winning and college scholarships should never come at the cost of a child’s well-being. In response to the rise of overuse injuries and burnout in young athletes, I’ve developed a set of Seven Rules for Sports Safety to help ensure kids stay safe, healthy and happy while enjoying their favorite sports. These rules cover everything from choosing the right shoes and ensuring proper structure and stretching to focusing on speed, building strength, practicing on safe surfaces, and maintaining proper support through a balanced diet and hydration. These principles are key to preventing injuries and helping athletes thrive long-term.